Working memory (WM) is linked to the learning process and plays an important role in acquiring knowledge of pupils with intellectual disabilities (ID). Pupils with ID have more difficulties in learning and acquiring knowledge due to the lower capacity of their working memory. In last few years the research in the literature suggest studies that with training working memory it is possible to improve the achievements in tasks similar to the types of tasks in training and achievements in other tasks of higher cognitive abilities. The studies included also adolescents and adults with ID. Although some studies didn't show much progress after training, improving the results on tasks that are similar to the trained represents some kind of progress.
In the theoretical part we defined pupil’s characteristics with ID in an adapted educational program with lower education standard, different types of memory, memory problems and how these reflect on learning, and presented various training of working memory. In the empirical part, based on the case study research approach, we focused on working memory abilities of pupils with ID. The main goal was to determine the effectiveness of Jungle Memory computer training on working memory abilities and the impact of the training on improving the school skills. With four 7th grade pupils, aged 13-14 years, who were included in the adapted educational program with lower education standard, we performed a diagnostic assessment of working memory and academic skills using the following tests: SNAP, ACADIA, test TOKEN, Sentence repetition technique, reading comprehension test, and a 10-minute test for assessing the automation of arithmetic facts and procedures. With two pupils from the experimental group we performed the computer training Jungle memory and at the end of the training we re-applied all the tests. The two pupils from the comparative group did not receive any training; we only performed the re-application of the tests. The results of the retest showed improvement on all working memory subtests in one pupil from the experimental group while the other pupil from the experimental group improved the results only on some working memory subtests. A longer and more intense training might have yielded even better results.
By examining the effectiveness of a computer program for training working memory, we wanted to contribute to the improvement of special-education help and support for pupils with deficits in working memory and poor academic skills.
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