Standing desks could make kids smarter

Standing desks could make kids smarter

Use Linked To Better Executive Function & Working Memory Capabilities: Researcher

Standing des ks in classrooms could make children smarter by improving their cognitive performance, a new study by an Indi an-origin researcher has fo und. The study provides the first evidence of neurocogniti ve benefits of stand-height desks in classrooms, where students are given the choice to stand or sit based on their preferences, researchers said.

Ranjana Mehta, assistant professor at the Texas A&M Health Science Centre School of Public Health, researched high school students who used standing desks. Tests were performed at the begin ning and again at the end of their freshman year.

Through using an experimental design, Mehta explored the neurocognitive benefits using four computerised tests to assess executive functions. Executive functions are cognitive skills we all use to analyse tasks, break them into steps and keep them in mind until we get them done.

These skills are directly related to the development of many academic skills that allow students to manage their time effectively, memories facts, understand what they read, solve multi-step problems and organise their thoughts in writing.

Because these functions are largely regulated in the area largely regulated in the frontal brain regions, a portable brain-imaging device (functional near infrared spectroscopy) was used to examine associated changes in the frontal brain function by placing bio sensors on students' foreheads during testing.

“Test results indicated that continued use of standing desks was associated with significant improvements in executive function and working memory capabilities, “ Mehta said. “Changes in corresponding brain activation patterns were also observed, “she said.

“Interestingly, our research showed the use of standing desks improved neurocognitive function, which is consistent with results from previous studies on school based exercise programmes,“Mehta said. PTI

Source | Times of India | 18 January 2016

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