Probing plasticity of attention and working memory processes induced by video game play

The aims of this chapter are to outline the key experimental methods used by neuroscientists to evaluate the impact of game-based training strategies on attention and working memory function in humans. The chapter is organized into sections that detail methods that probe the major facets of attention followed by methods that probe working memory. Attention methods are subdivided into sections on (1) spatial attention, (2) temporal attention, (3) combined spatial and temporal attention, (4) feature-/object-based attention, (5) sustained attention, (6) interaction between top-down and bottom-up attention, and (7) attention resource allocation. Methods that assess working memory function are then presented in two major sections, (9) visual and visuospatial working memory and (10) verbal working memory. We conclude with a discussion of prospects for further research and applications