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A comparison of systematic instruction, error-based learning and trial and error to train the use of smartphone memory apps after acquired brain injury: A three-armed phase II randomised controlled trial study protocol

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  13 July 2020

Diana Ramirez-Hernandez Open the ORCID record for Diana Ramirez-Hernandez [Opens in a new window] ,
Renerus J. Stolwyk Open the ORCID record for Renerus J. Stolwyk [Opens in a new window] ,
Tamara Ownsworth Open the ORCID record for Tamara Ownsworth [Opens in a new window]  and
Dana Wong Open the ORCID record for Dana Wong [Opens in a new window]
Diana Ramirez-Hernandez
Affiliation:
School of Psychological Sciences and Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
Renerus J. Stolwyk
Affiliation:
School of Psychological Sciences and Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia Monash-Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre, Melbourne, Australia
Tamara Ownsworth
Affiliation:
School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Mt Gravatt, Australia
Dana Wong*
Affiliation:
School of Psychological Sciences and Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia Monash-Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre, Melbourne, Australia School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
*
*Corresponding author. Email: D.Wong@latrobe.edu.au
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Abstract

Background:

The uptake of smartphones as external compensatory memory aids following an acquired brain injury (ABI) in rehabilitation settings is low. Potential reasons for this include professionals not having evidence-based guidelines regarding the best methods to train smartphone use and prospective users not being familiar with technology and/or having memory and learning difficulties. This paper describes the protocol of a study that aims to compare the efficacy of three training methods (Systematic Instruction, Error-based Learning and Trial-and-Error) for training the use of a smartphone reminder app, in people with ABI presenting with memory complaints.

Methods/Design:

This is a three-armed, assessor-blinded, Phase II randomised controlled trial. The estimated sample size is 51 participants aged >18 years, who are equally randomised to one of the three training groups. They are seen across four sessions: one to conduct baseline measures; one for training the use of an app and two for follow-up assessments (1- and 6-weeks post-training). The main outcome measure is proficiency of performance in tasks with the trained app. Secondary outcomes include generalisation of skills to other apps, number of errors committed while attempting the tasks, frequency of smartphone usage in general and as a memory aid and confidence in smartphone use and memory self-efficacy. Outcome measures are collected by an independent blinded assessor. Proficiency of performance, generalisation of skills and error commission are measured immediately post-training and at the two follow-up sessions. The other secondary measures are taken pre-intervention and at the two follow-up sessions.

Discussion:

This study will provide initial evidence regarding the efficacy of three different methods to train ABI survivors with memory difficulties in how to use smartphone apps as compensatory memory aids. The results could inform a larger Phase III trial and advance knowledge concerning the advantages or disadvantages of using error-reducing and trial-and-error techniques. Further, the findings could determine the potential of error-based learning as an emerging training method for people with memory impairment within rehabilitation.

Keywords

Brain injurymemory rehabilitationsmartphone useskills training
Type
Protocol
Information
Brain Impairment , Volume 22 , Issue 2 , September 2021 , pp. 217 - 232
Copyright
© Australasian Society for the Study of Brain Impairment 2020

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