About this study
Children who get radiation therapy for brain tumors often have trouble with attention, processing speed, and learning. We want to find out if using virtual reality can help improve these thinking skills. Virtual reality is a computer-based tool that lets people feel like they are inside a different environment. It may be more fun and helpful than regular computer training.
The study will compare 2 types of training for children who are having radiation therapy for brain tumors. Some children will use a tablet to play cognitive (thinking) games. Others will use a virtual reality headset. Both groups will do 5 short training sessions over 2–4 weeks. Each session will last about 15–20 minutes. The training will happen while children are already at the hospital for their regular care. Before and after the training, children will take tests to measure their thinking and problem-solving skills.
Doctors will also look at brain activity during the study. A special cap will be used to measure how the brain uses oxygen. This test is called functional near infrared spectroscopy, or fNIRS. It is safe and does not hurt. Children will wear the cap during some of the training and testing sessions. The goal is to see if the brain changes in ways that show better thinking and problem solving.
The study will help doctors understand how virtual reality affects the brain and thinking and problem-solving skills. If it works well, this training could be used with more children to help their thinking skills during cancer treatment.
Eligibility overview
- 8–22 years old
- Starting radiation therapy for a brain tumor
- Able to complete cognitive training tasks and not have major sensory, motor, or psychiatric conditions that would interfere with study procedures
- Speaks English or Spanish