The influence of N-back working memory training with Gabor signal on visual function and fluid intelligence

Abstract

Objective To investigate influence on adults' visual function and fluid intelligence with N-back working memory training based on Gabor signal. Methods Controlling group including 13 adults had no training, training group including 14 adults received an eight-days training, half an hour a day.The stimulus was N-back training which has on improved Gabor signal with adjustable spatial frequency and contrast sensitivity. The contrast sensitivity and fluid intelligence were record using OPTEC 6500 and Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices before and after training, then the data was analyzed and processed by SPSS. Results Contrast sensitivity: there was a significant different of the contrast sensitivity between pretest and posttest((1.93±0.17) log, (1.76±0.20)log) in training group (t=-4.579, P=0.001). Fluid intelligence: there was a significant different of fluid intelligence between pretest and posttest((129.9±9.0)scores, (113.7±16.0)scores) in training group(t=-4.373, P=0.001), and superior to controlling group, which also had a statistical significance(F=1.353, P=0.004). Conclusion The method of N-back working memory training based on Gabor signal not only enhances working memory and fluid intelligence, but also improves the visual function effectively, and more various effect is acquired comparing to traditional training method. Key words: Working memory training; N-back; Contrast sensitivity; Fluid intelligence