 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
n-back
- iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad
- Price: Free
- Category: Educational Games
Common Sense Media says
Challenging memory task for self-motivated players.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that n-back has players perform a challenging memory task commonly used to measure and build working memory. Working memory includes thinking skills that allow us to keep information in mind as we complete tasks. N-back tasks require players to stretch working memory by following a sequence numbers or shapes and trying to remember what they saw two times before or three times before and so on. This version combines addition problems with the n-back memory task for a super brain workout that might be too tough for some kids. Players can share high scores via the Game Center social network, but participation is optional.
What kids can learn
Kids can learn to stretch their working memory with this challenging n-back task. The integration of addition problems into the mix gives players some arithmetic practice as well. In order to hold the numbers in their working memory and complete the math problems at the same time, some kids might develop strategies to help them remember such as saying the numbers aloud. Despite its bland interface and lack of tips or guidance, n-back is a challenging brain exercise that can sharpen mental skills.
Skills
- Thinking & Reasoningmemorization, problem solving, strategy
- Creativity
- Self-Directionidentifying strengths and weaknesses, motivation, self-assessment
- Emotional Development
- Communication
- Collaboration
- Responsibility & Ethics
- Tech Skills
- Health & Fitness
What's it about?
Players set the difficulty level from 1 to 10 to determine how many numbers back (n-back) they must remember. They see a sequence of addition problems and must calculate the problem and remember the answer. For Level 1, they must tap the answer to the problem that came before the one they see on the screen. For Level 2, they tap the answer for the problem they saw two times before. Each round includes 10 problems, and players' best times for each level are recorded.
Is it any good?
Playing N-BACK is a lot of work and not much fun, so it seems doubtful too many kids will be clamoring for this one. The levels ramp up in difficulty very quickly, though attempting to improve scores at the lower levels might be a fun challenge for some kids. It's possible to improve times and move up to more difficult levels with dedicated practice, but it won't happen overnight. And presenting addition problems as part of the memory task adds an extra layer of challenge for kids who are still working on basic arithmetic skills.
That said, the buzz around these n-back tasks (and why there are so many in the App Store) is that at least one research study suggests working memory training can improve fluid intelligence (i.e., IQ). Some scientists contest the findings and call for more research to be done. Either way, n-back tasks do exercise working memory and get the neurons firing, which isn't a bad thing.
What kids can learn
Kids can learn to stretch their working memory with this challenging n-back task. The integration of addition problems into the mix gives players some arithmetic practice as well. In order to hold the numbers in their working memory and complete the math problems at the same time, some kids might develop strategies to help them remember such as saying the numbers aloud. Despite its bland interface and lack of tips or guidance, n-back is a challenging brain exercise that can sharpen mental skills.
Subjects
- Language & Reading:
- Math: addition
- Science:
- Social Studies:
- Arts:
- Hobbies:
Skills
- Thinking & Reasoning: memorization, problem solving, strategy
- Creativity:
- Self-Direction: identifying strengths and weaknesses, motivation, self-assessment
- Emotional Development:
- Communication:
- Collaboration:
- Responsibility & Ethics:
- Tech Skills:
- Health & Fitness:
How kids will learn
Kids use their working memory by holding a sequence of numbers in their mind as they calculate addition problems. The 10 levels of difficulty alleviate potential frustrations by allowing kids to choose their comfort level. Game Center integration provides a bit of motivation, since players can see where they rank on the leaderboard. Variations in the n-back task would make the game more accessible to kids who are not yet proficient in arithmetic.
How parents can help
- Help your kids come up with strategies to support working memory. Encourage them to say things aloud or create a rhyme or mnemonic devices to build memory skills.
- Some researchers say games like n-back can help kids improve working memory. Challenge your kids to play a few minutes each day and keep track of their progress.
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| Category: | Educational Games |
| Platforms: | iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad |
| Price: | Free |
| Size: | 1.20 MB |
| Publisher: | dicwizard.jp |
| Version: | 1.0 |
| Release date: | October 1, 2012 |
| Minimum software requirements: | iOS 4.2 or later |
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