Annex B – Technology reviewComputer-assisted brain training
Computer-assisted brain training has generated significant interest, even though
evidence of its effect on cognition in areas other than those being specifically trained
remains elusive.^105 Since conventional training can enhance higher cognitive functions
(for example, decision-making and reasoning), it should be possible to adapt
computer-assisted brain training to enhance general cognition. In the coming decades,
blending computer-assisted brain training with conventional training could become highly
effective, especially in organisations and groups that have the necessary processes for
evaluating and adapting training. Although there is some evidence to suggest that brain
training applications improve cognition it is not clear they lead to lasting improvements.^106
Similarly, the benefit of brain training in practical settings and for improving general
intelligence has also been questioned.^107
Personalised training
Personalised training consists of four different aspects: training adaption, nutrition
adaption, supplements and recovery. At a biological level, people have different
capabilities in each of these four areas and by tailoring activities to an individual’s
biological limit, optimal results can be achieved. Machine learning could be used to track
an individual ́s gain in strength (for example, number of repetitions for a given weight)
and receive recommendations regarding training routine needed to reach optimal muscle
development and the same principles could be applied to personalisation of nutrition.
Smartphone applications that use machine learning to generate personalised regimes are
already under (commercial) development.
The synergy between training and using augmentation technologies is likely to be
significant. For example, technology has helped scientists understand how physical
exercise contributes to increased intelligence. In many cases users will need to undertake
training to derive the full benefit of augmentations. Similarly, technology can be used to
optimise recovery rates both to enhance training effectiveness and promote recovery.
Sleep optimisation
Sleep has positive effects on many processes including mental and physical development,
whilst sleep deprivation impairs vigilance and most cognitive functions. Technology can
be used to identify an individual’s most effective sleep patterns, leading to improvements
in performance.
105 Moreau, D. and Conway, A. R., (2013), International Review of Sport and Exercise Psychology,
‘Cognitive enhancement: a comparative review of computerized and athletic training programs’.
106 Hardy, J. and Scanlon, M., (2009), Luminosity, ‘The science behind lumosity’; Shute, V. J., et al.,
(2015), Computers & Education, ‘The power of play: The effects of Portal 2 and Lumosity on cognitive and
noncognitive skills’; Bainbridge, K. and Mayer, R. E., (2018), Journal of Cognitive Enhancement, ‘Shining the
light of research on Lumosity’.
107 Jak, A. J., et al., (2013), Neuropsychology Review, ‘Crosswords to computers: a critical review of
popular approaches to cognitive enhancement’.