Poster #14 - HRV as a measure of regulation and cognitive function to predict maths performance

• In Event: Poster Session 17

Abstract

Regulatory mechanisms are essential for the development of abilities foundational to numeracy development such as Executive Functions (Hendry et al., 2016). Importantly, the development of regulatory mechanisms is essential for the development of foundational executive abilities at pivotal stages in early childhood which later help in skills such as those necessary for mathematical cognition. Furthermore, trait heart rate variability (HRV) as an affective regulation measure has been linked to both behavioural regulation tasks and executive functioning tasks such as self-control and inhibition. While many believe ability is a result of sole performance and practice, this view bypasses the potential underlying regulatory mechanisms that are essential to practice and maintenance of such abilities. Furthermore, studies have explored whether trait HRV or state HRV is the stronger predictor of regulatory mechanisms within an executively demanding task. We examined the effects of trait HRV on mathematical performance in addition to an emotionally evoked maths task in 80 3.5-year-old children. We assessed whether trait HRV predicts mathematical performance on a number identification task. We also further explored whether trait HRV is a stronger predictor of affective regulation within an emotionally evoked maths game or if state HRV is the stronger predictor. Results support a mechanism by which children who are anxious might overcome their anxiety and perform well, contrary to expectations of state-related educational anxieties.

Group Authors

Gattas, SU., Fraser, A., Fiske, A. (Oxford), Mortimer, A. (Bath), Holmboe, K. (Bristol) & Scerif, G. (Oxford)

Authors

• Sylvia Gattas, University of Oxford
  Presenting Author

• Gaia Scerif, University of Oxford

• Abigail Fiske, University of Oxford