Using Open Training

What is Open Training?

Open Training allows end users to train with all NeuroTracker session types, advanced parameters, themes, and dual-task training options. Most of these options can be combined for unique training experiences.

Session types: these are similar to Core sessions but place emphasis on different types of attention.

Advanced parameters: number of targets and tracking duration are standard parameters, while Advanced Parameters allows users to set the speed of first trial of a session, how long targets are presented, and also how long answer feedback is presented.

Themes: virtual sports environments can be set as the background during NeuroTracker sessions, in addition the spheres can be set to spinning baseballs, soccer balls or basketballs.

Dual-Tasks: these are specialized passive or active Dual-Tasks testing specific visual or perceptual-cognitive skills presented within the NeuroTracker task environment. Note that +Math and +Stroop require activating the NeuroTrackerX voice recognition option.

Access to Open Training requires Organizations to complete the Advanced NeuroTracker Academy Certification. Once this is completed access is automatically unlocked.

Organizations can then choose to make Open Training accessible to individual users by clicking the checkbox in their user profile.

Using Open Training

Open Training is accessed on the end user's dashboard by clicking the compass icon on the left side.

To navigate the page it useful to first hover over the 'i' symbols to get into on each element, and then once options are selected to click the video preview option see the selected options in action.

Preview of the baseball theme

A session type must be chosen to train, so it is recommended to choose this before adding other options. Other options aren't required to train, but can be added in many different combinations.

For example, the Dynamic session could be used with +Reaction and the soccer theme.

Note that Open Training will not affect preset training programs - once completed the next session in the program queue will still be default on the user's dashboard.

When to Use Open Training?

When trainers are managing users in person, the Open Training page can be useful for quickly launching custom sessions on-the-spot. This is also a helpful way to introduce users to this option before allowing access for home training.

It's recommended to only use the different session types after completing 3 Core sessions, and at least 15 single-tasks sessions before introducing Dual-Tasks. Themes can be added at any point, along with changes in parameters.

Open Training can be helpful to boost user's longer term motivation to train. For example it can be a good idea to give a user a target before giving them access, such as completing 30 sessions or reaching a 2.0 baseline for Core at 4 targets.

Note that new training options such as audio soundscapes will be added to the Open Training page going forward.

Lastly, it is recommended to complete a standard Core session at least once every 5 sessions, as scores provide a valuable reference for monitoring how well a training program is progressing.