Computer game-based technology in the development of preschoolers’ executive functions

Introduction. Computer applications are important for the development of preschoolers' executive functions. This paper is the first study to overview foreign studies of computer game-based methods for the development of executive functions. Theoretical Basis. The study describes (a) A. Miyake's model of executive functions and (b) the cultural-historical approach. Results. The study revealed the main reasons for the use and development of serious videogames. Their advantages over standard methods were as follows: (a) Some data indicated the developmental effect of the existing games. (b) Such a format of training tasks had a positive impact on motivation. (c) The game adapted flexibly to a trainee's level. (d) Such tasks had a high ecological compatibility. The review analyzed the existing programs and applications for the development of preschoolers' executive functions, which required the participation of parents or teachers in the process of training and organized peer interaction. The paper described the basic principles of creating serious games, which can not only adapt to the user's development level, but also maintain motivation when training executive functions. The literature on the creation of serious video games showed the importance of a subject's learning of certain sets of actions and their use in appropriate situations for the development of memory and inhibition. Timely actions were important for the development of cognitive flexibility. Discussion. The comparison of the analyzed computer game-based methods made it possible to distinguish the most significant features, which can develop executive functions at preschool age. The findings can be successfully used for evaluating the existing applications and creating new videogames, aimed at the development of executive functions.