Anzonia Farrant

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Cognitive differences and cognitive enhancements in neurotypical and neurodivergent populations

Working memory (WM) is a limited-capacity cognitive system that enables information to be temporarily maintained and used to support ongoing activities, including comprehension, problem-solving and learning. Working memory capacity (WMC) reflects the amount of information that can be temporarily maintained and manipulated, with capacity varying across individuals. Working memory difficulties are commonly observed in neurological and neurodevelopmental conditions, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and may contribute to challenges in learning and academic performance.

Although working memory training has been extensively investigated, there is limited evidence that its benefits are sustained over time or extend to other cognitive tasks. However, previous research suggests that relatively simple adjustments, including additional processing time, pauses between items, directing attention towards relevant information and increasing familiarity, can improve working memory performance under certain conditions. Building on these findings, this project explores whether modifying how information is presented and processed can better support working memory performance in individuals with varying levels of WMC, as well as those with ADHD.

Through a series of behavioural experiments, the project will first examine how the effects of these adjustments vary with individual differences in WMC, before investigating their effects in adults with and without ADHD. Findings will also inform the development of an adaptive learning platform incorporating effective adjustments to support comprehension and recall.

Ultimately, this research aims to identify evidence-based adjustments that account for individual differences in WMC, contributing to more accessible and effective learning environments, particularly for individuals with ADHD.

Research