Comparing the Effectiveness of Software-based vs. Non-soft Packages of Working Memory and Selective Attention

The present study aimed to compare the effects of the non-computerized training package of Working Memory (WM) and selective attention with Captain’s Log software on the components of WM.

This was a quasi-experimental study with a non-random targeted sampling method, and pre-test, post-test, follow-up, and a control group design. A sample of 150 cases aged 13 to15 years diagnosed with Temporal Lobe Epilepsy (TLE) referring to neurology clinics was selected and randomly divided into two case groups (n=15/group) and a control group (n=15). The non-computerized package was performed in 15 one-hour sessions for 4 weeks in the first case group. Besides, the computerized package was provided in 15 sessions (45 minutes each) for 4 weeks in the second case group; however, the control group received no training. All WM components were examined in the pre-test, post-test, and follow-up (3 months after post-test) steps in all study groups.

The repeated-measures Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) data indicated a significant difference in the mean scores of the components of WM in the first case group, compared to the second case group and the controls (P<0.05). 

The non-computerized package of WM and selective attention were significantly more effective on the WM components, compared to the Captain’s Log computerized package.