Using a Complex Sensorimotor Reaction to Predict School Performance

Abstract

In recent years, the number of students with learning difficulties has increased. Often, children with a high level of intellectual development cannot cope with the primary school program. The success of studying at school is largely determined by the level of development of the executive function. There is evidence that the results of sensorimotor tests coincide with the results of the evaluation of executive function. The purpose of the study: to find a connection between the results of sensorimotor tests and the academic performance of elementary school students. The study involved 108 children aged 9-11 years. Annual marks in all subjects for grades 2 and 3 were taken into account. The diagnostic unit consisted of 7 hardware and software tests that evaluated various parameters of simple and complex sensorimotor reactions. Results. Factorial and regression analysis of the data were carried out, statistically significant relationships between academic performance and indicators of complex sensorimotor tests were revealed. The tests included three main elements of executive function: inhibitory control, working memory and cognitive flexibility. The results of certain sensorimotor tests predict academic performance in grades 2 and 3. Apparently, this is due to the fact that the tests simulate the learning process in real conditions when it is necessary to show cognitive flexibility. The relationship of academic performance with simple sensorimotor reactions has not been revealed. Conclusion. The use of certain sensorimotor tests for older preschoolers and first grade students will allow identifying children at risk of learning difficulties before these difficulties arise and have a negative impact on the development of the child's personality. The use of software and hardware complexes for conducting sensorimotor tests makes it possible to examine large groups of children in a short time, which is convenient in educational institutions. The results of testing of younger schoolchildren will help to develop an optimal educational route for each child, taking into account the peculiarities of the functioning of the nervous system.