The effect of practice on random number generation task: a transcranial direct current stimulation study

Area of Science:

• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Neuroscience
• Psychology

Background:

• Random number generation (RNG) is linked to executive functions like information updating, monitoring, and response inhibition.
• While practice effects on executive functions are studied, their impact on RNG remains less understood.
• Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can non-invasively modulate brain activity and enhance training effects on executive functions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of practice on random number generation (RNG).
• To explore if tDCS over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex can influence RNG performance.
• To identify which cognitive components of RNG are affected by practice.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-six healthy volunteers performed RNG tasks across single and multiple sessions.
• Evaluated randomness using measures sensitive to distinct cognitive components of random behavior.
• Applied tDCS over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex to assess its modulatory effects.

Main Results:

• Repetition measures improved significantly within a single session.
• Seriation measures showed significant improvement both within and between sessions.
• Cycling measures were unaffected by practice; tDCS did not yield significant overall effects, though a trend for improved seriation was noted with anodal stimulation in the first session.

Conclusions:

• Practice selectively and consistently influences specific cognitive components underlying random behavior.
• tDCS demonstrated a transient effect on RNG performance, particularly on seriation, in the initial session.
• Findings highlight the distinct impact of practice and tDCS on executive functions related to RNG.