The efficacy of working memory training in improving crystallized intelligence

Abstract

Crystallized intelligence (Gc) is thought to reflect skills acquired through knowledge and experience and is related to verbal ability, language development^1^ and academic success^2^. Gc, together with fluid intelligence (Gf), are constructs of general intelligence^3^. While Gc involves learning, knowledge and skills, Gf refers to our ability in tests of problem-solving, pattern matching, and reasoning. Although there is evidence that Gf can be improved through memory training in adults^4^, the efficacy of memory training in improving acquired skills, such as Gc and academic attainment, has yet to be established. Furthermore, evidence of transfer effects from gains made in the trained tasks is sparse^5^. Here we demonstrate improvements in Gc and academic attainment using working memory training. Participants in the Training group displayed superior performance in all measures of cognitive assessments post-training compared to the Control group, who received knowledge-based training. While previous studies have indicated that gains in intelligence are due to improvements in test-taking skills^6^, this study demonstrates that it is possible to improve crystallized skills through working memory training. Considering the fundamental importance of Gc in acquiring and using knowledge and its predictive power for a large variety of intellectual tasks, these findings may be highly relevant to improving educational outcomes in those who are struggling.

Evaluating the Effects of Metalinguistic and Working Memory Training on Reading Fluency in Chinese and English: A Randomized Controlled Trial

“…From the meta-analysis by Melby-Lervåg and Hulme (2013), we found that the studies that failed to find a large effect size on word decoding or vocabulary mostly used non-linguistic materials such as digits, shapes, pictures and sounds of objects as training stimuli (e.g., Horowitz-Kraus and Breznitz, 2009; Holmes et al, 2010; Van der Molen et al, 2010; Shiran and Breznitz, 2011). Interestingly, when word endings and complete words were used in working memory training, a significant large effect on children’s vocabulary was reported (Alloway and Alloway, 2009). This suggests that working memory training may also have beneficial effects on literacy acquisition in English, at least when linguistic material is used as in the current study.…”

Working memory and executive function profiles of individuals with borderline intellectual functioning

“…There is also growing research on the efficacy of training working memory (Jaeggi et al . 2008), and transfer to learning outcomes (Alloway & Alloway, in press). These findings offer hope to struggling students and can be integrated as part of a targeted support for the student (Gathercole & Alloway 2008).…”

Limited Near and Far Transfer Effects of Jungle Memory Working Memory Training on Learning Mathematics in Children with Attentional and Mathematical Difficulties

“…However, although this study used a composite score of four basic operations, it is not likely that this kind of effect would have been found, given the small and noisy effects that were obtained. A study by Alloway and Alloway (2009) , that did administer a division task, has shown effects on mathematical ability, using the same working memory training as in the present study. This study, however, was underpowered and effects on improvement in mathematics were small.…”