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The Impact of Neurocognitive Temporal Training on Reaction Time and Running Memory of U.S. Active Duty Personnel

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Advances in Neuroergonomics and Cognitive Engineering (AHFE 2017)

Part of the book series: Advances in Intelligent Systems and Computing ((AISC,volume 586))

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Abstract

Battlefields are dynamic environments that require robust cognitive skills and rapid responses. Temporal (timing and rhythm) training may improve coordination and cognition. This study examined Soldiers’ reaction times and working memory following neurocognitive temporal training. Forty-two soldier volunteers were assigned to either a temporal training intervention (TTI) group (n = 19) or a control (n = 23) group. Outcome measures were simple reaction time (SRT) and running memory continuous performance (RMCP). No significant difference were found in group, time, or group x time (p < .05). While not reaching statistical significance, the following were considered of practical relevance for soldiers in combat. Those receiving TTI reduced their mean correct SRT, while the control groups’ reaction time increased. For RMCP, the number of correct responses per unit of time increased for the TTI group and decreased for controls. A trend was shown for temporal training improving service members’ reaction times and running memory.

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Acknowledgements

The views expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Army, Department of Defense, U.S. Army Research Laboratory, or the U.S. Government.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. DCS Corporation, 6909 Metro Park Drive, Suite 500, Alexandria, VA, 22310, USA

    Cory R. Overby, Leah Enders & Jessica Villarreal

  2. HRED-ATSD, Army Medical Department Field Element, U.S. Army Research Laboratory, Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, TX, 78234, USA

    Valerie Rice & Gary Boykin

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  1. Cory R. Overby
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  2. Valerie Rice
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Correspondence to Valerie Rice .

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  1. Department of Psychology, Human Factors and Applied Cognition, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, USA

    Carryl Baldwin

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Overby, C.R., Rice, V., Boykin, G., Enders, L., Villarreal, J. (2018). The Impact of Neurocognitive Temporal Training on Reaction Time and Running Memory of U.S. Active Duty Personnel. In: Baldwin, C. (eds) Advances in Neuroergonomics and Cognitive Engineering. AHFE 2017. Advances in Intelligent Systems and Computing, vol 586. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-60642-2_6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-60642-2_6

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