Learning mnemonics: a preliminary evaluation of a computer-aided instruction package for the elderly

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Cognitive Psychology
• Educational Technology

Background:

• Age-related memory decline is a significant concern for the elderly population.
• Effective memory training strategies are crucial for maintaining cognitive function in older adults.
• Computer-Aided Instruction (CAI) offers a potential avenue for accessible and scalable memory enhancement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a Computer-Aided Instruction (CAI) package for teaching a mnemonic device to elderly subjects.
• To compare the effectiveness of CAI memory training with traditional classroom instruction.
• To identify individual characteristics that may predict success in CAI-based memory training.

Main Methods:

• Sixty-two elderly participants (average age 71) received mnemonic training via a CAI package.
• A control group of 218 elderly subjects received similar instruction from a trainer in a classroom setting.
• The NEO-Personality Inventory, specifically the Openness to Experience subscale, was administered.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant difference was found in list-learning improvement between the CAI group and the classroom instruction group.
• In the CAI group, improved list-learning was significantly correlated with higher scores on the Openness to Experience subscale.
• This suggests that personality traits may influence the effectiveness of CAI for memory training.

Conclusions:

• CAI is a viable method for memory training in the elderly, yielding results comparable to traditional methods.
• Individuals higher in Openness to Experience may benefit more from CAI memory training.
• CAI memory training tools could be valuable for targeting specific memory deficits in select elderly populations.