RECOGNeyes: remediating cognitive control of gaze

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is typified by impairments in the control of attention and/or inhibitory motor control, both of which are related to gaze control. Visual attention requires control of gaze direction and gaze control is itself a motor control skill.

Our goal is to develop computer games that use eye-tracker technology where the player’s eyes become the game controller. To advance in the games, the player must gain control of gaze direction. The training games will be designed to improve fixation in the face of irrelevant distractors while monitoring the periphery. The games will also train the timing of saccadic responses in line with evidence that motor timing may be a related impairment in ADHD. Prototypes will be made in consultation with young people and adults with ADHD, and games will be programmed using a standard gaming platform with visual and auditory effects. We will produce a suite of training games that will be evaluated by students and teachers in local schools.

The games will help people with ADHD develop and improve gaze control and their control of attention.