CrushStations vs First Stop

CrushStations is a game designed to train working memory, a subskill of executive functions. Working memory involves holding information in mind and mentally working with it (Diamond, 2013). Players need to remember the color and type of creatures to free them and keep them out of reach of the hungry octopus. How does this support learning? Executive functions refer to a set of top-down, goal-oriented cognitive processes that enable people to control, monitor and plan behaviors and emotions. Miyake and Friedman’s model supports a unity-and-diversity view of EF in that it incorporates the three distinct but related components of EF: inhibitory control, task-switching and updating (Miyake et al., 2000). What is the research evidence? Our research suggests that CrushStations is an effective way to train working memory. The study supporting this claim will be published soon. Research has found that EF is related to performance in literacy and math along with long-term gains in school performance and academic readiness (Blair & Razza, 2007; Brock, Rimm-Kaufman, Nathanson, & Grimm, 2009; St Clair-Thompson & Gathercole, 2006; Welsh, Nix, Blair, Bierman, & Nelson, 2010) and that disparities in EF among preschool children from low-income versus high-income homes may contribute to the achievement gap (Blair & Razza, 2007; Noble, McCandliss, & Farah, 2007). This game is part of the Smart Suite, created by New York University’s CREATE lab in collaboration with the University of California, Santa Barbara, and The Graduate Center, CUNY. The research reported here was supported by the Institute of Education Sciences, U.S. Department of Education, through Grant R305A150417 to the University of California, Santa Barbara. The opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not represent views of the Institute or the U.S. Department of Education.

First Stop: Build Bus Riding Confidence Through Play! First Stop is a captivating mobile game designed to empower individuals of all abilities to learn essential bus-riding skills in a fun and engaging way. Developed by Simcoach Games in collaboration with behavioral health professionals, First Stop utilizes evidence-based practices to make learning accessible and rewarding. Empowering Independence Through Play First Stop goes beyond memorization, focusing on building the foundational skills necessary for successful bus travel. Players navigate through increasingly challenging levels, encountering real-world scenarios that require route planning, bus identification, stop monitoring, and problem-solving. A positive reinforcement system with star rewards motivates players as they progress, while personalized feedback helps them identify areas for improvement. Benefits for Parents: • Confidence and Independence: Help your child gain the confidence to explore their world independently! First Stop provides a safe, virtual environment for them to practice essential bus riding skills at their own pace. • Stress-Free Learning: Watch your child master key skills without the worry of real-world mishaps. First Stop allows them to experiment and learn from mistakes in a safe and controlled setting. • Embedded Instruction: First Stop is a unique educational tool that offers a combination of in-game rewards and helpful hints designed to guide your child through various skill levels, ultimately enhancing their learning experience.This approach not only makes learning more engaging but also helps your child build confidence as they tackle new challenges and acquire new skills. • Building Valuable Skills: First Stop goes beyond just bus riding. The game helps your child develop problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and decision-making abilities that benefit them in all areas of life. Benefits for Educators: • Engaging Curriculum Supplement: Make lessons come alive in your classroom! First Stop is an engaging mobile game designed to supplement your curriculum and reinforce critical bus-riding concepts for students with diverse needs. • Aligned with Learning Objectives: The game's content is aligned with curriculum objectives, ensuring valuable skill development that complements classroom instruction. • Promoting Independent Learning: First Stop fosters independent learning and decision-making through interactive gameplay. Students can practice essential skills at their own pace, building confidence and mastery. Benefits for Behavioral Health Clinicians: • Evidence-Based ABA Therapy: First Stop utilizes Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles to teach essential bus riding skills in a way that is effective and measurable. • Customizable Learning Experience: The game offers 17 progressively challenging levels with customizable difficulty settings, allowing you to tailor the program to each patient's specific needs and goals. • Building Essential Skills: First Stop focuses on core skills necessary for successful bus travel, including route planning, bus identification, stop monitoring, and problem-solving. Download First Stop today and empower individuals of all abilities to navigate their world with confidence!