CCT | DICE Lab

Computerized cognitive training

Computerised cognitive training (CCT) is a research area focused on developing computer-based programs or tools that aim to improve cognitive functions, for instance memory and learning. One of the primary objectives of CCT is to enhance cognitive abilities and potentially mitigate cognitive decline associated with ageing. CCT offers a promising alternative to pharmaceutical treatments when implemented as cognitive interventions, typically designed to engage participants in cognitive tasks or exercises such as memory training. CCT offers the potential to for instance improve treatment adherence, engagement and entertainment of cognitive interventions. Furthermore, through digitalisation, it also has the potential to increase accessibility, affordability and scope of available cognitive intervention treatments and thus make them available to more people.

How we work with Computerized Cognitive Training

At DICE Lab we mainly work with gamification of CCT. Gamification involves incorporating game design elements, such as points, rewards, and interactive interfaces, into cognitive interventions. Gamification has the potential to increase engagement and entertainment and thus to improve treatment adherence and improve the experience for those in need of cognitive interventions. Our work is mainly associated with gamification of memory training (aimed for people with dementia or mild cognitive impairment) and is closely linked to Differential Outcomes Training (DOT). DOT, an easily implementable and non-intrusive tool, has demonstrated efficacy in enhancing learning and memory in various clinical and non-clinical groups. The DOT-effect is the phenomenon of enhanced and expedited learning through correct responses to novel stimulus-response associations.

Current Projects

ActNow

In this project we have developed the TTT Booster Game, a visuospatial working memory task disguised in a gamified setting. The game includes a DOT protocol and consists of a 5x5 grid made up of grey cells (almost like TicTacToe) and illuminating cells to be memorised. See image for a visualisation of the game.

JPND Forte Network

A network of various researchers developed by Rob Lowe and the DICE Lab aimed at develop a methodological framework for digitised cognitive-psychosocial interventions integrating forms of cognitive training and psychosocial therapy for persons with dementia

Publications

Vicarious Value Learning: Knowledge transfer through affective processing on a social differential outcomes task

Rittmo, J., Carlsson, R., Gander, P., & Lowe, R

Collaborations

We are proud to have had a long and fruitful collaboration with Danish Brain+ who have made it possible for us to see our research and developments being made into real world applications. The game BrainBlossom that is currently being tested for clinical subjects is largely based on the TTT Booster Game developed by DICE Lab.

Funding bodies

Our current research and projects are funded by ActNow.

DICE Lab is a commissioned researcher on Project: ACTTDCS - Attentional Control Training and Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation to treat dementia and the “Joint Program Neurodegenerative Disease Research” (https://neurodegenerationresearch.eu/) and Forte.