Abstract
Interactive video-based technologies (IVBT) have demonstrated some significant training effects for perceptual-motor skills in rehabilitative and sport settings in adult populations. However, less Is known about training benefits in youth. The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the effectiveness of IVBTs as a modality for perceptual-motor training in youth. Literature was retrieved through a systematic search of four electronic databases (EMBASE, MEDLINE, SPORTDiscus, and APA Psych Net), cross-referencing, and authors' knowledge. Articles were eligible if an IVBT training intervention and perceptual-motor skills were examined in children/youth. A total of 14 articles met the criteria and were retained for analysis and quality assessment (via a modified Downs and Black tool). Participants included 1002 youth (range in age = 5 to 18 yrs; 47% female). Training focus targeted executive functioning (29%), general perceptual-motor processes (50%), or were sport-specific (21%). Most studies utilized computerized assessments (57%) versus real-world transfer tasks (22%). A statically significant benefit of IVBT for perceptual motor training was demonstrated in 64% of studies; however, quality assessment was low across studies (M = 12.07/19, SD = 1.44). While early results suggest that IVBT may benefit perceptual-motor training in youth, there is currently a paucity of research. As such, this is an area of opportunity for researchers to investigate further by designing studies that focus on valid assessment measures, larger sample sizes, and examining different ages and stages of development. Investigations should also examine transfer tests for real-world training applications across various sports and movement-related environments.
