Effect of Wii Fit training on visual perception and executive function in boys with developmental coordination disorders: A randomized controlled trial.

Background: This paper elucidated the influence of Wii Fit training on visual perception and executive function in boys with developmental coordination disorders (DCD).

Methods: 50 school boy with DCD (Mean Age = 9.55 ± 2.24) were randomly assigned to one of two groups, Wii Fit training (intervention; n = 25) or usual school program (control; n = 25). Visual perception and executive function were measured pre-, post- (8 weeks, 3 sessions per week, 30 minute per session), using Cognitive Assessment System (CAS) and Test of Visual-Perceptual Skills-Revised (TVPS-R), respectively. Pre- and post-test changes in executive function and visual perception were calculated using one-way ANCOVA, with pre-test values as covariate and post-test values as dependent variables.

Results: The findings show that the rates of change in total score of visual perception from pre to post were significantly different between groups (F(1, 47) = 660.76, P = 0.024). Similarly, intervention group showed significantly different rates of change in total score of executive function from pre to post (F (1, 47) = 26.15, P = 0.013).

Conclusion: Findings support that when developing interventions for the improvement or management of visual perception and executive function in children with DCD, key stakeholders should include the Wii Fit training programs.