Long-Term Cognitive and Neurophysiological Effects of Mental Rotation Training

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Long-Term Cognitive and Neurophysiological Effects of Mental Rotation Training
Language: English
Authors: Linlin Dong (ORCID 0009-0003-3942-1304), Yufeng Ke (ORCID 0000-0002-8434-0322), Xiaodong Zhu, Shuang Liu (ORCID 0000-0002-4372-8443), Dong Ming (ORCID 0000-0002-8192-2538)
Source: npj Science of Learning. 2025 10.
Availability: Nature Portfolio. Available from: Springer Nature. One New York Plaza, Suite 4600, New York, NY 10004. Tel: 800-777-4643; Tel: 212-460-1500; Fax: 212-460-1700; e-mail: customerservice@springernature.com; Web site: https://www.nature.com/npjscilearn/
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 9
Publication Date: 2025
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Descriptors: Spatial Ability, Cognitive Ability, Long Term Memory, Drills (Practice), Cognitive Processes, Training Methods, Stimulation, Brain, Behavior Development, Accuracy, Reaction Time, Cognitive Development
ISSN: 2056-7936
Abstract: Mental rotation, a crucial aspect of spatial cognition, can be improved through repeated practice. However, the long-term effects of combining training with non-invasive brain stimulation and its neurophysiological correlates are not well understood. This study examined the lasting effects of a 10-day mental rotation training with high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) on behavioral and neural outcomes in 34 healthy participants. Participants were randomly assigned to the Active and Shan groups, with equal group sizes. Mental rotation tests and EEG recordings were conducted at baseline, 1 day, 20 days, and 90 days post-training. Although HD-tDCS showed no significant effect, training led to improved accuracy, faster response times, and enhanced task-evoked EEG responses, with benefits lasting up to 90 days. Notably, task-evoked EEG responses remained elevated 20 days post-training. Individual differences, such as gender and baseline performance, influenced the outcomes. These results emphasize the potential of mental rotation training for cognitive enhancement and suggest a need for further investigation into cognition-related neuroplasticity.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2025
Access URL: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41539-025-00309-2
Accession Number: EJ1465858
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:Mental rotation, a crucial aspect of spatial cognition, can be improved through repeated practice. However, the long-term effects of combining training with non-invasive brain stimulation and its neurophysiological correlates are not well understood. This study examined the lasting effects of a 10-day mental rotation training with high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) on behavioral and neural outcomes in 34 healthy participants. Participants were randomly assigned to the Active and Shan groups, with equal group sizes. Mental rotation tests and EEG recordings were conducted at baseline, 1 day, 20 days, and 90 days post-training. Although HD-tDCS showed no significant effect, training led to improved accuracy, faster response times, and enhanced task-evoked EEG responses, with benefits lasting up to 90 days. Notably, task-evoked EEG responses remained elevated 20 days post-training. Individual differences, such as gender and baseline performance, influenced the outcomes. These results emphasize the potential of mental rotation training for cognitive enhancement and suggest a need for further investigation into cognition-related neuroplasticity.
ISSN:2056-7936