Related Experiment Videos
Cognitive training for EMR children: choosing the best alternative
American Journal of Mental Deficiency
|May 1, 1978
Summary
Cognitive training significantly improved problem-solving skills in children with educable mental retardation (EMR). Early intensive cognitive intervention is effective for EMR children
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Special Education
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Children with educable mental retardation (EMR) often exhibit deficits in problem-solving skills.
- Understanding the experiential components of these deficits is crucial for effective intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of an 8-week cognitive training program for improving problem-solving skills in EMR children.
- To determine if early intensive cognitive training can address typical deficits in EMR individuals.
Main Methods:
- An experimental group (n=28) of EMR children received targeted cognitive training.
- A control group (n=28) participated in similar activities without cognitive training.
- Training involved small-group discussions and table games focused on social problem-solving.
Main Results:
- The experimental group demonstrated significantly superior posttest scores compared to the control group (p < .001).
- This indicates a substantial positive impact of the cognitive training intervention.
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest that problem-solving deficits in EMR children have a significant experiential component.
- Early, intensive cognitive training is a highly effective strategy for enhancing problem-solving abilities in EMR children.