An Investigation of Computer-based Brain Training on the Cognitive and EEG Performance of Employees

Neurocognitive skills (e.g., processing speed, attention and memory) were hypothesized to be critical for workplace performance and by extension for the work-life balance of employees. Twenty-one employee volunteers underwent a neurocognitive training program - which consisted of an initial pre-test assessment, a six week "boost" or intervention period, and then a re-assessment to track the progress of each participant. A median split of the group created two training groups: a long-training group that averaged 30 hours of total training during the boost period; and a short-training group that averaged 7 hours of training. On pretraining measures of neurocognitive performance, group differences in performance did not reach statistical significance. Following training participants experienced a positive impact from the program as measured in three ways: standardized higher behavioral metrics, improved cognitive state metrics using EEG and positive self-reported data. From a quantitative perspective, participants' cognitive efficiency increased by 12% for the high-training group and 5% for the low-training group (cognitive efficiency refers to a behavioral measure which combines accuracy and speed). Qualitatively, study participants reported improvements in their productivity and mental performance post-study.