mohammad javad hemmati

One of the main symptoms of children with autism spectrum is impairment disorder in executive functions and its components. This study investigated the effectiveness of working memory training on executive functions in children with high-function autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

In a single-subject study with ABA design, five children with ASD, the age range of 11-6 years, by available sampling method participated in the study. Their executive function was assessed 3 times before the intervention with 2 weeks interval, 4 times during the intervention and 3 times after the intervention using the Behavioral Rating Inventory of Executive Function by the parents. Intervention consisted of working memory training using Robo memo software in 24 sessions (3 times a week and each session 30 minutes). Visual analysis, the percentage of non-overlapping data, and effect size were used to interpret the results.

Working memory training improved the executive functions, respectively, with Cohenchr('39')s D effect sizes (1.87, 2.55, 3.97, 2.76, 4.22), respectively. The intervention program also improved behavioral adjustment index with effect sizes (1.46, 2.55, 4.61, 1.89, 3.65) and metacognition (with effect sizes 1.87, 2.15, / 68 2, 3.13, 3.71) in subjects. The changes were in all 5 subjects were positive (effect size greater than 0.8).

It seems that working memory training can enhance executive functions and its components (behavioral regulation, metacognition) in children with high functioning autism spectrum disorder.

This study investigated the impact of visual-kinesthetic tasks on ESP university students’ vocabulary learning. Two intact classes of university students were selected as control (23 students) and experimental (36 students) group. A proficiency test, a pretest and a posttest were administered and the students were exposed to a set of treatments. Also a questionnaire administered to students, recognized each student’s learning style. The posttest mean score of experimental group was significantly different from control group’s posttest proved significant effect of visual and kinesthetic activities on ESP students’ vocabulary learning. Also this significant effect was repeated regarding student’ related learning style.