Front Psychol. 2015; 6: 1711.
Published online 2015 Nov 10. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01711
PMCID: PMC4639603
Working Memory Training is Associated with Long Term Attainments in Math and Reading
Abstract
Training
working memory (WM) using computerized programs has been shown to
improve functions directly linked to WM such as following instructions
and attention. These functions influence academic performance, which
leads to the question of whether WM training can transfer to improved
academic performance. We followed the academic performance of two
age-matched groups during 2 years. As part of the curriculum in grade 4
(age 9–10), all students in one classroom (n = 20) completed Cogmed Working Memory Training (CWMT) whereas children in the other classroom (n
= 22) received education as usual. Performance on nationally
standardized tests in math and reading was used as outcome measures at
baseline and two years later. At baseline both classes were normal/high
performing according to national standards. At grade 6, reading had
improved to a significantly greater extent for the training group
compared to the control group (medium effect size, Cohen’s d = 0.66, p = 0.045). For math performance the same pattern was observed with a medium effect size (Cohen’s d = 0.58) reaching statistical trend levels (p = 0.091). Moreover, the academic attainments were found to correlate with the degree of improvements during training (p
< 0.053). This is the first study of long-term (>1 year) effects
of WM training on academic performance. We found performance on both
reading and math to be positively impacted after completion of CWMT.
Since there were no baseline differences between the groups, the results
may reflect an influence on learning capacity, with improved WM leading
to a boost in students’ capacity to learn. This study is also the first
to investigate the effects of CWMT on academic performance in typical
or high achieving students. The results suggest that WM training can
help optimize the academic potential of high performers.
Keywords: working memory training, academic attainment, cognitive training, cogmed, educational psychology
