Validation of Three Game-Based Executive Function Measures: How Does Intrinsic Motivation Impact the Measuring Outcomes?

• In Event: Individual Differences in Technology and Learning

Abstract

This study aimed to validate three game-based measures of executive function (EF) by correlating participants’ game scores with the measuring outcomes of three traditional EF measures. Within the theoretical framework of the Self-Determination Theory (Ryan & Deci, 2000), how critical aspects of intrinsic motivation impacted the convergence in the measuring outcomes between the EF games and the traditional EF measures was also examined. Twenty-one undergraduates (Mage = 21.67 years, SD = 2.85) participated in the study. Results showed that participants’ game scores didn’t converge with the measuring outcomes of the traditional EF measures. Satisfaction of perceived competence throughout the tasks helped bridge the differences in the measuring outcomes, while an overabundance of task enjoyment made the task less valid.

Authors

• Ming Chen, Graduate Center - CUNY
  Presenting Author

• Bruce D. Homer, Graduate Center - CUNY
  Non-Presenting Author

• Jan L. Plass, New York University
  Non-Presenting Author