It all started with MissionCognition, a series of computer games for children intended for cognitive assessment, research and play (Haddad & al., 2004).

Eight interactive games loosely based on some of Piaget’s experiments on the development of intelligence. Aimed at children aged from 7 to 12 years, each game was designed to initiate ever-increasing processes of higher-level thought processes and strategic thinking in the child’s mind. The interface engages players intuitively, leading them to different problem spaces (planets) containing four axes of cognition:

combinatory thought

intuitive physics

space construction

probability.

During the game, each action of the child is registered in an Excel file automatically and in real time, with information such as problem-solving steps, problem-solving time, number/type of error being stored. The research tool with integrated data-storing system, is adapted for large-scale macro-developmental as well as fine-tuned micro-developmental studies. It can be used for both longitudinal and cross-sectional studies.

Mission cognition has proven to be a reliable tool for developmental research