Work

The Impact of Working-Memory Training on Children’s Cognitive and Noncognitive Skills

Year: 2024

Type: article

Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial

Abstract: Working-memory (WM) capacity is a key component of a wide range of cognitive and noncognitive skills—such as fluid IQ, math, reading, and inhibitory control—but can WM training improve these skills? Here, we examine the causal impact of WM training embedded in regular school teaching, using a randomized educational intervention with 6–7-year-old children. We find substantial gains in WM capacity and document positive spillover effects on geometry, fluid IQ, and inhibitory control. Three years later, treated children are 16 percentage points more likely to enter an advanced secondary school track.

Source: Journal of Political Economy

DOI: 10.1086/732884

Authors: Eva M. Berger, Ernst Fehr, Henning Hermes, Daniel Schunk, Kirsten Winkel

Institutions: Ifo Institute for Economic Research, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, IZA - Institute of Labor Economics, University of Zurich, Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, Universität Koblenz

Language: English

Topic: Cognitive Abilities and Testing

Subfield: Experimental and Cognitive Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Quality education

Open Access status: hybrid

OpenAlex ID: W4401880778

FWCI: 4.422

Cites: 65

Cited by: 12

Related to: 10