Neurobehavioral Evaluation System (NES) and school performance

The aims of this study were to explore the validity of a set of computerized tests, and to explore the validity of reaction time variability as an index of sustained attention. In Phase 1, 105 children 7–10 years old were presented with five tests from the Neurobehavioral Evaluation System (NES). The children were able to complete four of the tests: the Continuous Performance, Simple Reaction Time, Symbol-Digit Substitution, and Digit Span tests. In Phase 2, a follow-up of 88 children, performance on these tests was significantly associated with teachers' ratings of attention and with standardized academic achievement measures. Moreover, variability on the Simple Reaction Time and performance on the Digit Span and Symbol-Digit tests significantly predicted reading achievement. Similarly, performance on the Digit Span and Symbol-Digit tests significantly predicted mathematics achievement. In addition, variability on the Simple Reaction Time and Digit Span test performance were significant predictors of reading achievement above and beyond the prediction provided by teachers' ratings.