# A Feasibility and Efficacy Study of NeuroTrainer Cognitive Training in Students With and Without Attention-Related Difficulties

> **NIH NIH R43** · NEUROTRAINER INC · 2024 · $489,314

## Abstract

Abstract
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects approximately 11% of children and adolescents, leading
to impairments in cognitive functions and decreased academic performance. Cognitive training presents a
promising non-pharmaceutical intervention for ADHD, although the benefits often exhibit limited transfer to
real-world tasks. This study aims to address this gap by testing a virtual reality (VR) cognitive training approach
called NeuroTrainer, which integrates physical activity, prolonged training near performance threshold, and
variability in task dynamics and demands. These factors are shown to be key for transfer success in diverse
populations. VR technology provides immersive, ecologically valid, and physically engaging environments that
motivate and engage students' attention.
Preliminary testing of NeuroTrainer has shown feasibility in school-based settings and potential efficacy for
students at risk for ADHD. The current proposal seeks to develop a commercially viable VR cognitive training
intervention for students with ADHD and aligned with National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) strategies and
funding topics. The study will focus on improving attentional and executive control function (Aim 1), evaluating
efficacy of NeuroTrainer to engage the target of ADHD inattention symptoms (Aim 2), and demonstrate transfer
of skill with improvement in academic behaviors (Aim 3) within a sample of 155 students in school settings.
The primary outcome measures are effect sizes for attentional and executive control function, clinical
inattention symptoms, and academic behaviors (classroom engagement and attentiveness) in both ADHD and
non-ADHD groups. By leveraging VR technology, this study aims to contribute to the development of an
innovative, accessible, and effective intervention for ADHD students and a supplementary tool for others, with
potential for broad dissemination and applicability in diverse contexts.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 11006829
- **Project number:** 1R43MH135599-01A1
- **Recipient organization:** NEUROTRAINER INC
- **Principal Investigator:** Jeff Nyquist
- **Activity code:** R43 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $489,314
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2024-09-01 → 2026-02-28

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/11006829

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 11006829, A Feasibility and Efficacy Study of NeuroTrainer Cognitive Training in Students With and Without Attention-Related Difficulties (1R43MH135599-01A1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/11006829. Licensed CC0.

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