The Centre for Lifelong Learning and Individualized Cognition (CLIC) is a programme in the Science of Learning initiative that leverages progress in neuroscience to develop lifelong flexible learning training programs. CLIC aims to improve lifelong learning and cognitive agility through innovative cross-disciplinary research and intends to translate its findings into an integrated model of learning that can be applied in day-to-day life.

Characterisation of Cognitive Flexibility

CLIC adopts a two-phase initiative. The first phase uses scoping studies to understand the construct and outcome validity of cognitive flexibility and the effects of structure learning on cognitive flexibility. The second phase will establish a neurocognitive model of flexible learning, investigate social influences on flexible learning and translate findings into practical training programmes for various populations.

There were several key findings from the first phase of the study. They serve as a characterisation probe for the broader CLIC programme and has significant implications for education and CF intervention strategies.

The team identified a novel cognitive flexibility (CF) factor that reflects the ability to navigate uncertainty, through reinforcement learning modelling of CF tasks involving rule changes or probabilistic feedback. These CF factors predicted critical outcomes like creativity, problem-solving abilities, and academic achievements, independent of general intelligence.

These findings suggest that environments and methods promoting flexible thinking can improve outcomes in reading, math, and creativity (Tong et al., under review).

Training Cognitive Flexibility for Dynamic Engagement

The team have embarked on developing a new training programme set to be implemented in the second phase of the study. This novel training program, known as the Structure Learning-based Cognitive Flexibility Suite (SLiCX), introduces elements such as shifting and reversal learning into the structure learning training paradigm.

The pilot studies will inform how various age groups perform in the new design and allow the team to design intervention programmes based on the results for each age group (adults and adolescents).

The SLiCX team aims to design intervention programmes that will be better suited for each age group and produce an engaging version of the intervention programmes. This will be beneficial as a cognitive flexibility training programme for all ages that can be implemented in school or general lifestyle to aid individuals in the rapidly changing environment.