Adaptivity in Cognitive Training

University of Geneva , 1 semester
Explore how adaptive digital interventions enhance cognitive training and engagement.
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Adaptivity in Cognitive Training
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This project investigates adaptivity in digital cognitive training, focusing on how difficulty levels adjust in real time to match user performance. By analyzing different adaptive techniques—ranging from rule-based to AI-driven machine learning approaches—we aim to understand their impact on motivation, engagement, and cognitive gains. Our systematic review categorizes existing interventions, evaluating their effectiveness in improving attention, memory, inhibition control and cognitive flexibility skills across different age groups. Through this research, we provide insights into how personalized digital learning experiences can optimize training outcomes. This project is ideal for students interested in educational technology, psychology, and human-computer interaction, offering a unique opportunity to explore how adaptive systems enhance learning and cognitive development.

The selected student will work within the Brain & Learning Lab team lead by prof. Bavelier, and collaborate with Pr Angela Pasqualotto at SUPSI.

  • Number of placements available: 2 per semester
  • Project runs from: 18 January 2027 - 11 June 2027

Prerequisites

  • High level (3rd or 4th year) undergraduate student 
  • Minimum GPA 3.4
  • Interest in learning new software and AI tools and in the review processing. Interest in young and older adults population.

Important note: 

Students must remain registered as an undergraduate student at their U.S. or Canadian home institution while participating in the program. The student's home institution must complete the Learning Agreement after acceptance into a project, even if credits will not be transferred to that institution. Transfer of credits is decided by the students' home institution.

Submitting an application, does not guarantee that the student will be offered a placement. The research projects are also available to our domestic degree students; therefore, projects may already be full at the time of applying. Final decision on your admission is solely taken by the Research Supervisor at the host institution.

Faculty Department

Faculty of Educational Sciences and PsychologyBrain and Learning lab

A distinctive feature of the human brain is its capacity to learn and adapt to an ever-changing environment.  What are the factors that promote such learning and brain plasticity?  Are some parts of our nervous system more plastic than others, making some skills easier to acquire?  Answers to these questions are central to basic science, education, clinical rehabilitation, and aging.  To address these questions, our lab uses a multidisciplinary approach (behavior, brain imaging, eye tracking, vital statistics) to study how individuals learn and adapt after training. The lab is studying the impact of video games and more generally technology use on brain plasticity.