How to encourage the voluntary mobilization of mental resources in a cognitive task? (Preprint)

BACKGROUND Cognitive training is increasingly being considered and proposed as a solution for a number of pathologies, particularly those associated with aging. However, to be effectively involved in cognitive training, it needs to be willing to put in enough mental effort to succeed and make progress. OBJECTIVE In this study we explore how gamification could help increasing voluntary mental effort by adding to a cognitive task visual GLE (Game-Like-Elements) within a narrative context. We also conder if this effect could endure while manipulating intrinsic variable of the task (i.e. by increasing cognitive solicitation). METHODS Thus, twenty participants assessed the impact of visual GLE in cognitive tasks on Perceived Playfulness (PP) and Mental Workload (MWL; assessed thanks to NASA-TLX and WP questionnaires). We also considered increased cognitive demand through a playful task. RESULTS Results showed that PP was more influenced by cognitive solicitation than interface’s playful characteristics. Moreover, visual game-like elements increased MWL regarding attentional resources, while manipulating cognitive solicitation impacted MWL when linked to task requirements. CONCLUSIONS These results offer valuable insights to improve users’ experience during gamified cognitive tasks and serious games.