Exeter study finds VR helps dyspraxia

Researchers at the University of Exeter have found that virtual reality gaming could help improve motor skills in young people with dyspraxia.

The preliminary study, published in the JMIR, explored whether immersive VR games could support children and teenagers with Developmental Coordination Disorder, commonly known as dyspraxia.

In the study, 27 participants aged between 10 and 16 played the virtual reality rhythm game Beat Saber for 30 minutes a day over the course of a week. The game requires repetitive arm movements in time with music, helping develop coordination and speed.

Researchers found that participants showed improved upper-body dexterity after the VR sessions compared with when they played games on a tablet.

Dr Gavin Buckingham, a cognitive psychologist at the University of Exeter and the study’s supervisor, said the findings provide early evidence that VR games could offer a fun and accessible way to help improve motor control in children and adolescents with dyspraxia.

Dyspraxia affects around two children in every class of 30 in the UK and can make everyday activities such as writing, throwing, catching or tying shoelaces more difficult.

The researchers say further studies are needed to explore whether virtual reality could help children feel more confident participating in sport and other physical activities.