Effects and mechanisms of working memory training: a review

von Bastian, Claudia C.; Oberauer, Klaus

doi:10.1007/s00426-013-0524-6

Cited by 318Cognitive Abilities and TestingCognitive and developmental aspects of mathematical skillsCognitive Functions and Memory

Effects and mechanisms of working memory training: a review

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von Bastian, Claudia C., Oberauer, Klaus·2014·Psychological Research

DOI 10.1007/s00426-013-0524-6

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Abstract

Can cognitive abilities such as reasoning be improved through working memory training? This question is still highly controversial, with prior studies providing contradictory findings. The lack of theory-driven, systematic approaches and (occasionally serious) methodological shortcomings complicates this debate even more. This review suggests two general mechanisms mediating transfer effects that are (or are not) observed after working memory training: enhanced working memory capacity, enabling people to hold more items in working memory than before training, or enhanced efficiency using the working memory capacity available (e.g., using chunking strategies to remember more items correctly). We then highlight multiple factors that could influence these mechanisms of transfer and thus the success of training interventions. These factors include (1) the nature of the training regime (i.e., intensity, duration, and adaptivity of the training tasks) and, with it, the magnitude of improvements during training, and (2) individual differences in age, cognitive abilities, biological factors, and motivational and personality factors. Finally, we summarize the findings revealed by existing training studies for each of these factors, and thereby present a roadmap for accumulating further empirical evidence regarding the efficacy of working memory training in a systematic way.

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For the five largest effect sizes, all comparisons used only one test to measure nonverbal ability.
“and (b) used only one test to measure nonverbal ability (in contrast to multiple indicators of the intended nonverbal ability construct; Shipstead et al., 2012; von Bastian & Oberauer, 2014).”
From Working Memory Training Does Not Improve Performance on Measures of Intelligence or Other Measures of “Far Transfer” (2016) · cites this paper as von Bastian & Oberauer, 2014
A genuine improvement in underlying working memory components, such as updating flexibility and storage capacity, should yield broad transfer across different measures.
“An actual improvement in the effectiveness of the underlying WM components such as flexibility of updating and storage capacity, on the other hand, should result in broad transfer effects to different kinds of measures (von Bastian & Oberauer, 2014).”
From Working memory training revisited: A multi-level meta-analysis of n-back training studies (2017) · cites this paper as von Bastian & Oberauer, 2014
Transfer from WMT may reflect working memory's close interdependence with other cognitive domains and partial overlap of their functional substrates.
“Such transfer may reflect working memory’s close interdependence with other cognitive domains and the partial overlap of their functional substrates, allowing working-memory-focused training to generalise—at least in part—to broader and more complex cognitive outcomes16,17.”
From Meta-analysis of computerised working memory training: behavioural gains, training parameters, transfer mechanisms, and neural correlates (2026) · cites this paper as [16]
The pattern of greater attenuation for trained tasks is compatible with closer alignment of trained probes with training content, which may preferentially tune task-specific representations, whereas untrained tasks likely place broader demands on control and strategy implementation.
“This pattern is compatible with the closer alignment of trained probes with the training content, which may preferentially tune task-specific representations, whereas untrained tasks likely place broader demands on control and strategy implementation16,17.”
From Meta-analysis of computerised working memory training: behavioural gains, training parameters, transfer mechanisms, and neural correlates (2026) · cites this paper as [16]
Only an active control group accounts for non-specific training effects such as engaging regularly in a computerized task, expectancy, and placebo effects.
“Whereas a passive (or no-contact) control group accounts for test-retest effects, only an active control group accounts for non-specific training effects such as engaging regularly in a computerized task, expectancy, and placebo effects [7].”
From Adaptive working memory training does not produce transfer effects in cognition and neuroimaging (2022) · cites this paper as [7]

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Extending Brain-Training to the Affective Domain: Increasing Cognitive and Affective Executive Control through Emotional Working Memory Training
Schweizer, S., Hampshire, A., & Dalgleish, T. (2011) · PLoS ONE · doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0024372 · Cited by 198 · see citing works
Computerized working memory training: Can it lead to gains in cognitive skills in students?
Alloway, T. P., Bibile, V., & Lau, G. (2013) · Computers in Human Behavior · doi:10.1016/j.chb.2012.10.023 · Cited by 193 · see citing works
Computerized training of working memory in a group of patients suffering from acquired brain injury
Lundqvist, A., Grundström, K., Samuelsson, K., & Rönnberg, J. (2010) · Brain Injury · doi:10.3109/02699052.2010.498007 · Cited by 192 · see citing works
Individual Differences in Working Memory Capacity and Reasoning Ability
Oberauer, K., Süß, H., Wilhelm, O., & Sander, N. (2008) · Oxford University Press eBooks · doi:10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195168648.003.0003 · Cited by 191 · see citing works
Self-citation
On the locus and process of magnification of age differences during mnemonic training.
Kliegl, R. M., Smith, J., & Baltes, P. B. (1990) · Developmental Psychology · doi:10.1037/0012-1649.26.6.894 · Cited by 187 · see citing works
On the mechanisms of plasticity in young and older adults after instruction in the method of loci: evidence for an amplification model
Verhaeghen, P., & Marcoen, A. (1996) · Psychology and Aging · doi:10.1037//0882-7974.11.1.164 · Cited by 180 · see citing works
On the mechanisms of plasticity in young and older adults after instruction in the method of loci: Evidence for an amplification model.
Verhaeghen, P., & Marcoen, A. (1996) · Psychology and Aging · doi:10.1037/0882-7974.11.1.164 · Cited by 180 · see citing works
A Matthew Effect for IQ but Not for Reading: Results from a Longitudinal Study
Shaywitz, B. A., Holford, T. R., Holahan, J. M., Fletcher, J. M., Stuebing, K. K., Francis, D. J., & Shaywitz, S. E. (1995) · Reading Research Quarterly · doi:10.2307/748203 · Cited by 178 · see citing works
The effects of working memory training on functional brain network efficiency
Langer, N., von Bastian, C. C., Wirz, H., Oberauer, K., & Jäncke, L. (2013) · Cortex · doi:10.1016/j.cortex.2013.01.008 · Cited by 175 · see citing works
Self-citation
Training-induced compensation versus magnification of individual differences in memory performance
Lövdén, M., Brehmer, Y., Li, S., & Lindenberger, U. (2012) · Frontiers in Human Neuroscience · doi:10.3389/fnhum.2012.00141 · Cited by 173 · see citing works
Genetics of Cognition: Outline of a Collaborative Twin Study
Wright, M. J., de Geus, E. J. C., Ando, J., Michelle Luciano, A., Posthuma, D., Ono, Y., Hansell, N. K., van Baal, C. G. C. M., Hiraishi, K., Hasegawa, T., et al. (2001) · Twin Research · doi:10.1375/twin.4.1.48 · Cited by 170 · see citing works
The Contributions of Strategy Use to Working Memory Span: A Comparison of Strategy Assessment Methods
Dunlosky, J., & Kane, M. J. (2007) · Quarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology · doi:10.1080/17470210600926075 · Cited by 164 · cited 2× · see citing works
“Finally, we summarize the findings revealed by existing training studies for each of these factors, and thereby present a roadmap for accumulating further empirical evidence regarding the efficacy of working memory training in a systematic way.”
BackgroundMethod
Modulation of hippocampal synaptic transmission and plasticity by neurotrophins
Lu, B., & Gottschalk, W. (2000) · Progress in brain research · doi:10.1016/s0079-6123(00)28020-5 · Cited by 158 · see citing works
Heritability of Working Memory Brain Activation
Blokland, G. A. M., McMahon, K. L., Thompson, P. M., Martin, N. G., de Zubicaray, G. I., & Wright, M. J. (2011) · Journal of Neuroscience · doi:10.1523/jneurosci.5334-10.2011 · Cited by 158 · see citing works
Enhancing the Cognitive Vitality of Older Adults
Kramer, A. F., & Willis, S. L. (2002) · Current Directions in Psychological Science · doi:10.1111/1467-8721.00194 · Cited by 153 · see citing works
Spacing repetitions over 1 week
Glenberg, A. M., & Lehmann, T. S. (1980) · Memory & Cognition · doi:10.3758/bf03213772 · Cited by 151 · see citing works
On the impacts of working memory training on executive functioning
Salminen, T., Strobach, T., & Schubert, T. (2012) · Frontiers in Human Neuroscience · doi:10.3389/fnhum.2012.00166 · Cited by 148 · see citing works
Working memory training: Improving intelligence – Changing brain activity
Jaušovec, N., & Jaušovec, K. (2012) · Brain and Cognition · doi:10.1016/j.bandc.2012.02.007 · Cited by 142 · see citing works
Distinct transfer effects of training different facets of working memory capacity.
von Bastian, C. C., & Oberauer, K. (2013) · Journal of Memory and Language · doi:10.1016/j.jml.2013.02.002 · Cited by 139 · see citing works
Self-citation
Those Who Have, Receive: The Matthew Effect in Early Childhood Intervention in the Home Environment
Bakermans‐Kranenburg, M. J., van IJzendoorn, M. H., & Bradley, R. H. (2005) · Review of Educational Research · doi:10.3102/00346543075001001 · Cited by 133 · see citing works
Working memory training improvements and gains in non-trained cognitive tasks in young and older adults
Heinzel, S., Schulte, S., Onken, J., Duong, Q.-L., Riemer, T., Heinz, A., Kathmann, N., & Rapp, M. A. (2013) · Aging Neuropsychology and Cognition · doi:10.1080/13825585.2013.790338 · Cited by 129 · see citing works
Does Strategic Memory Training Improve the Working Memory Performance of Younger and Older Adults?
Carretti, B., Borella, E., & De Beni, R. (2007) · Experimental Psychology · doi:10.1027/1618-3169.54.4.311 · Cited by 127 · see citing works
A latent change score analysis of a randomized clinical trial in reasoning training.
McArdle, J. J., & Prindle, J. (2008) · Psychology and Aging · doi:10.1037/a0014349 · Cited by 125 · see citing works
Intensive video gaming improves encoding speed to visual short-term memory in young male adults
Wilms, I. L., Petersen, A., & Vangkilde, S. (2012) · Acta Psychologica · doi:10.1016/j.actpsy.2012.11.003 · Cited by 125 · see citing works
A Working Memory Workout: How to Expand the Focus of Serial Attention From One to Four Items in 10 Hours or Less.
Verhaeghen, P., Cerella, J., & Basak, C. (2004) · Journal of Experimental Psychology Learning Memory and Cognition · doi:10.1037/0278-7393.30.6.1322 · Cited by 124 · see citing works
Neural Limits to Representing Objects Still within View
Tsubomi, H., Fukuda, K., Watanabe, K., & Vogel, E. K. (2013) · Journal of Neuroscience · doi:10.1523/jneurosci.5348-12.2013 · Cited by 124 · see citing works
Lmx1a and Lmx1b cooperate with Foxa2 to coordinate the specification of dopaminergic neurons and control of floor plate cell differentiation in the developing mesencephalon
Nakatani, T., Kumai, M., Mizuhara, E., Minaki, Y., & Ono, Y. (2010) · Developmental Biology · doi:10.1016/j.ydbio.2009.12.017 · Cited by 121 · see citing works
Influence of neuroticism and conscientiousness on working memory training outcome
Studer-Luethi, B., Jaeggi, S. M., Buschkuehl, M., & Perrig, W. J. (2012) · Personality and Individual Differences · doi:10.1016/j.paid.2012.02.012 · Cited by 117 · see citing works
The effects of working memory resource depletion and training on sensorimotor adaptation
Anguera, J. A., Bernard, J. A., Jaeggi, S. M., Buschkuehl, M., Benson, B. L., Jennett, S., Humfleet, J., Reuter-Lorenz, P. A., Jonides, J., & Seidler, R. D. (2012) · Behavioural Brain Research · doi:10.1016/j.bbr.2011.11.040 · Cited by 115 · see citing works
Dual n-back training increases the capacity of the focus of attention
Lilienthal, L., Tamez, E., Shelton, J. T., Myerson, J., & Hale, S. (2013) · Psychonomic Bulletin & Review · doi:10.3758/s13423-012-0335-6 · Cited by 112 · see citing works
Improving intelligence: a literature review
Buschkuehl, M., & Jaeggi, S. (2010) · Swiss Medical Weekly · doi:10.4414/smw.2010.12852 · Cited by 109 · see citing works
Learning mnemonics: Roles of aging and subtle cognitive impairment.
Yesavage, J. A., Sheikh, J. I., Friedman, L., & Tanke, E. D. (1990) · Psychology and Aging · doi:10.1037//0882-7974.5.1.133 · Cited by 106 · see citing works
Effects of working memory training in young and old adults
von Bastian, C. C., Langer, N., Jäncke, L., & Oberauer, K. (2012) · Memory & Cognition · doi:10.3758/s13421-012-0280-7 · Cited by 104 · see citing works
Self-citation
Improved matrix reasoning is limited to training on tasks with a visuospatial component
Stephenson, C. L., & Halpern, D. F. (2013) · Intelligence · doi:10.1016/j.intell.2013.05.006 · Cited by 95 · see citing works
Tatool: A Java-based open-source programming framework for psychological studies
von Bastian, C. C., Locher, A., & Ruflin, M. (2012) · Behavior Research Methods · doi:10.3758/s13428-012-0224-y · Cited by 90 · see citing works
Expectancy effect: Impact of pill administration on cognitive performance in healthy seniors
Oken, B., Flegal, K. E., Zajdel, D. P., Kishiyama, S. S., Haas, M., & Peters, D. (2007) · Journal of Clinical and Experimental Neuropsychology · doi:10.1080/13803390701775428 · Cited by 88 · see citing works
Dopamine and training-related working-memory improvement
Bäckman, L., & Nyberg, L. H. (2013) · Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews · doi:10.1016/j.neubiorev.2013.01.014 · Cited by 84 · see citing works
Learning mnemonics: Roles of aging and subtle cognitive impairment.
Yesavage, J. A., Sheikh, J. I., Friedman, L., et al. (1990) · Psychology and Aging · doi:10.1037/0882-7974.5.1.133 · Cited by 80 · see citing works
Working memory plasticity modulated by dopamine transporter genotype
Brehmer, Y., Westerberg, H., Bellander, M., Fürth, D., Karlsson, S., & Bäckman, L. (2009) · Neuroscience Letters · doi:10.1016/j.neulet.2009.10.018 · Cited by 76 · see citing works
The effect of cognitive training on recall range and speed of information processing in the working memory of dyslexic and skilled readers
Shiran, A., & Breznitz, Z. (2011) · Journal of Neurolinguistics · doi:10.1016/j.jneuroling.2010.12.001 · Cited by 71 · see citing works
Adult Age Differences in Covariation of Motivation and Working Memory Performance: Contrasting Between-Person and Within-Person Findings
Brose, A., Schmiedek, F., Lövdén, M., Molenaar, P. C. M., & Lindenberger, U. (2010) · Research in Human Development · doi:10.1080/15427600903578177 · Cited by 71 · see citing works
Is the focus of attention in working memory expanded through practice?
Oberauer, K. (2006) · Journal of Experimental Psychology Learning Memory and Cognition · doi:10.1037/0278-7393.32.2.197 · Cited by 65 · see citing works
Self-citation
Computerised working memory training in healthy adults: A comparison of two different training schedules
Penner, I.-K., Vogt, A., Stöcklin, M., Gschwind, L., Opwis, K., & Calabrese, P. (2012) · Neuropsychological Rehabilitation · doi:10.1080/09602011.2012.686883 · Cited by 60 · see citing works
Effects of relaxation and mnemonics on memory, attention and anxiety in the elderly
Yesavage, J. A., & Jacob, R. G. (1984) · Experimental Aging Research · doi:10.1080/03610738408258467 · Cited by 54 · see citing works
Preliminary evidence that allelic variation in the LMX1A gene influences training-related working memory improvement
Bellander, M., Brehmer, Y., Westerberg, H., Karlsson, S., Fürth, D., Bergman, O., Eriksson, E., & Bäckman, L. (2011) · Neuropsychologia · doi:10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2011.03.021 · Cited by 48 · see citing works
Do polymorphisms in transcription factors LMX1A and LMX1B influence the risk for Parkinson’s disease?
Bergman, O., Håkansson, A. S., Westberg, L., Belin, A. C., Sydow, O., Olson, L., Holmberg, B., Fratiglioni, L., Bäckman, L., Eriksson, E., et al. (2009) · Journal of Neural Transmission · doi:10.1007/s00702-009-0187-z · Cited by 46 · see citing works
Component analysis of simple span vs. complex span adaptive working memory exercises: A randomized, controlled trial.
Gibson, B. S., Kronenberger, W. G., Gondoli, D. M., Johnson, A. C., Morrissey, R. A., & Steeger, C. M. (2012) · Journal of Applied Research in Memory and Cognition · doi:10.1016/j.jarmac.2012.06.005 · Cited by 44 · see citing works
Cognitive Ability: Does Working Memory Training Enhance Intelligence?
Conway, A. R. A., & Getz, S. J. (2010) · Current Biology · doi:10.1016/j.cub.2010.03.001 · Cited by 42 · see citing works
Transfer of task-switching training in older age: The role of verbal processes.
Karbach, J., Mang, S., & Kray, J. (2010) · Psychology and Aging · doi:10.1037/a0019845 · Cited by 41 · see citing works
Aging and Executive Functioning: A Training Study on Focus-Switching
Dorbath, L., Hasselhorn, M., & Titz, C. (2011) · Frontiers in Psychology · doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2011.00257 · Cited by 39 · see citing works
Influence of abilities on performance during practice: Effects of massed and distributed practice.
Mumford, M. D., Costanza, D. P., Baughman, W. A., Threlfall, K. V., & Fleishman, E. A. (1994) · Journal of Educational Psychology · doi:10.1037/0022-0663.86.1.134 · Cited by 37 · see citing works
Exploration of an adaptive training regimen that can target the secondary memory component of working memory capacity
Gibson, B. S., Gondoli, D. M., Kronenberger, W. G., Johnson, A. C., Steeger, C. M., & Morrissey, R. A. (2013) · Memory & Cognition · doi:10.3758/s13421-013-0295-8 · Cited by 33 · see citing works
Is working memory capacity fixed?
Klingberg, T. (2012) · Journal of Applied Research in Memory and Cognition · doi:10.1016/j.jarmac.2012.07.004 · Cited by 28 · see citing works
Genetic Modulation of Training and Transfer in Older Adults: BDNF Val66Met Polymorphism is Associated with Wider Useful Field of View
Colzato, L. S., van Muijden, J., Band, G. P. H., & Hommel, B. (2011) · Frontiers in Psychology · doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2011.00199 · Cited by 21 · see citing works
Exceptional memory.
Ericsson, K. A., & Chase, W. G. (1983) · PubMed · Cited by 20 · see citing works
Impact of Training Procedures Working Memory Training and Transfer Effects
von Bastian, C. C., & Eschen, A. (2013) · PsycEXTRA Dataset · doi:10.1037/e505772014-159 · Cited by 1 · see citing works

Flagged first, then by citations

Sorted by citations

The Intention–Behavior Gap
Sheeran, P., & Webb, T. L. (2016) · Social and Personality Psychology Compass · doi:10.1111/spc3.12265 · Cited by 2,185 · see citing works
Working Memory Training Does Not Improve Performance on Measures of Intelligence or Other Measures of “Far Transfer”
Melby-Lervåg, M., Redick, T. S., & Hulme, C. (2016) · Perspectives on Psychological Science · doi:10.1177/1745691616635612 · Cited by 910 · see citing works
“…working memory training on fluid intelligence or academic attainment are typically seen as being mediated by (i.e., dependent on) increases in working memory capacity (Harrison et al., 2013; Lange & Süß, 2015; Tidwell, Dougherty, Chrabaszcz, Thomas, & Mendoza, 2014; von Bastian & Oberauer, 2014).”
Improving fluid intelligence with training on working memory: a meta-analysis
Au, J., Sheehan, E., Tsai, N., Duncan, G. J., Buschkuehl, M., & Jaeggi, S. M. (2015) · Psychonomic Bulletin & Review · doi:10.3758/s13423-014-0699-x · Cited by 671 · see citing works
Working memory training revisited: A multi-level meta-analysis of n-back training studies
Soveri, A., Antfolk, J., Karlsson, L., Salo, B., & Laine, M. (2017) · Psychonomic Bulletin & Review · doi:10.3758/s13423-016-1217-0 · Cited by 350 · see citing works
“Near transfer refers to enhanced performance in a task that is intended to measure the trained cognitive domain and far transfer to improvement in another cognitive domain, such as WM training leading to better performance in a task measuring intelligence (von Bastian & Oberauer, 2014).”
Background
Does Working Memory Training Transfer? A Meta-Analysis Including Training Conditions as Moderators
Schwaighofer, M., Fischer, F., & Bühner, M. (2015) · Educational Psychologist · doi:10.1080/00461520.2015.1036274 · Cited by 332 · see citing works
Working memory training involves learning new skills
Gathercole, S. E., Dunning, D. L., Holmes, J., & Norris, D. (2019) · Journal of Memory and Language · doi:10.1016/j.jml.2018.10.003 · Cited by 225 · see citing works
Domain-general enhancements of metacognitive ability through adaptive training.
Carpenter, J., Sherman, M. T., Kievit, R. A., Seth, A. K., Lau, H., & Fleming, S. M. (2019) · Journal of Experimental Psychology: General · doi:10.1037/xge0000505 · Cited by 174 · see citing works
Can impaired working memory functioning be improved by training? A meta-analysis with a special focus on brain injured patients.
Weicker, J., Villringer, A., & Thöne-Otto, A. (2016) · Neuropsychology · doi:10.1037/neu0000227 · Cited by 147 · see citing works
Does working memory training promote the use of strategies on untrained working memory tasks?
Dunning, D. L., & Holmes, J. (2014) · Memory & Cognition · doi:10.3758/s13421-014-0410-5 · Cited by 129 · see citing works
Why does cognitive training yield inconsistent benefits? A meta-analysis of individual differences in baseline cognitive abilities and training outcomes
Traut, H. J., Guild, R. M., & Munakata, Y. (2021) · Frontiers in Psychology · doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2021.662139 · Cited by 100 · see citing works
A simultaneous examination of two forms of working memory training: Evidence for near transfer only
Minear, M., Brasher, F., Guerrero, C. B., Brasher, M., Moore, A., & Sukeena, J. (2016) · Memory & Cognition · doi:10.3758/s13421-016-0616-9 · Cited by 85 · see citing works
Neuropsychological interventions for decision-making in addiction: a systematic review
Verdejo-García, A., Alcázar-Córcoles, M. A., & Albein-Urios, N. (2019) · Neuropsychology Review · doi:10.1007/s11065-018-9384-6 · Cited by 83 · see citing works
Reviewing working memory training gains in healthy older adults: A meta-analytic review of transfer for cognitive outcomes
Teixeira-Santos, A. C., Moreira, C. S., Magalhães, R., Magalhães, C., Pereira, D. R., Leite, J., Carvalho, S., & Sampaio, A. (2019) · Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews · doi:10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.05.009 · Cited by 87 · see citing works
Does working memory training have to be adaptive?
von Bastian, C. C., & Eschen, A. (2016) · Psychological Research · doi:10.1007/s00426-015-0655-z · Cited by 83 · see citing works
Self-citation
Working memory updating and binding training: Bayesian evidence supporting the absence of transfer.
De Simoni, C., & von Bastian, C. C. (2018) · Journal of Experimental Psychology: General · doi:10.1037/xge0000453 · Cited by 84 · see citing works
Test–retest reliability of five frequently used executive tasks in healthy adults
Soveri, A., Lehtonen, M., Karlsson, L. C., Lukasik, K., Antfolk, J., & Laine, M. (2018) · Applied Neuropsychology: Adult · doi:10.1080/23279095.2016.1263795 · Cited by 81 · see citing works
Working memory training mostly engages general-purpose large-scale networks for learning
Salmi, J., Nyberg, L., & Laine, M. (2018) · Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews · doi:10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.03.019 · Cited by 70 · see citing works
The Hype Cycle of Working Memory Training
Redick, T. S. (2019) · Current Directions in Psychological Science · doi:10.1177/0963721419848668 · Cited by 69 · see citing works
“An intriguing finding worthy of further study is that the spacing of the training sessions might be relevant for the amount of transfer produced (von Bastian & Oberauer, 2014).”
Transfer after Dual n -Back Training Depends on Striatal Activation Change
Salminen, T., Kühn, S., Frensch, P. A., & Schubert, T. (2016) · The Journal of Neuroscience · doi:10.1523/jneurosci.2305-15.2016 · Cited by 70 · see citing works
The role of strategy use in working memory training outcomes
Fellman, D., Jylkkä, J., Waris, O., Soveri, A., Ritakallio, L., Haga, S., Salmi, J., Nyman, T. J., & Laine, M. (2020) · Journal of Memory and Language · doi:10.1016/j.jml.2019.104064 · Cited by 64 · see citing works
Divergent Research Methods Limit Understanding of Working Memory Training
Pergher, V., Shalchy, M. A., Pahor, A., Van Hulle, M. M., Jaeggi, S. M., & Seitz, A. R. (2020) · Journal of Cognitive Enhancement · doi:10.1007/s41465-019-00134-7 · Cited by 56 · see citing works
Are Working Memory Training Effects Paradigm-Specific?
Holmes, J., Woolgar, F., Hampshire, A., & Gathercole, S. E. (2019) · Frontiers in Psychology · doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01103 · Cited by 55 · see citing works
The Influence of Individual Differences in Cognitive Ability on Working Memory Training Gains
Wiemers, E. A., Redick, T. S., & Morrison, A. B. (2019) · Journal of Cognitive Enhancement · doi:10.1007/s41465-018-0111-2 · Cited by 48 · see citing works
Transfer after working memory updating training
Waris, O., Soveri, A., & Laine, M. (2015) · PLOS ONE · doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0138734 · Cited by 47 · see citing works
Effect of a working memory training on aspects of cognitive ability and driving ability of older drivers: Merits of an adaptive training over a non-adaptive training
Cuenen, A., Jongen, E. M. M., Brijs, T., Brijs, K., Houben, K., & Wets, G. (2016) · Transportation Research Part F: Traffic Psychology and Behaviour · doi:10.1016/j.trf.2016.06.012 · Cited by 45 · see citing works
Nearest transfer effects of working memory training: A comparison of two programs focused on working memory updating
Linares, R., Borella, E., Lechuga, M. T., Carretti, B., & Pelegrina, S. (2019) · PLOS ONE · doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0211321 · Cited by 38 · see citing works
Can human intelligence safeguard against artificial intelligence? Exploring individual differences in the discernment of human from AI texts
Chein, J., Martinez, S., & Barone, A. (2024) · doi:10.21203/rs.3.rs-4277893/v1 · Cited by 38 · see citing works
Pattern of Near Transfer Effects Following Working Memory Training With a Dual N-Back Task
Soveri, A., Karlsson, E. P. A., Waris, O., Grönholm-Nyman, P., & Laine, M. (2017) · Experimental Psychology · doi:10.1027/1618-3169/a000370 · Cited by 34 · see citing works
Adaptive working memory training does not produce transfer effects in cognition and neuroimaging
Ripp, I., Emch, M., Wu, Q., Lizarraga, A., Udale, R., von Bastian, C. C., Koch, K., & Yakushev, I. (2022) · Translational Psychiatry · doi:10.1038/s41398-022-02272-7 · Cited by 31 · see citing works
“Therefore, to resolve the controversies around the effectiveness of WM training, it is essential to discriminate between transfer driven by increased capacity in the trained domain such as WM capacity, and by enhanced use of the existing capacity [7].”
BackgroundResultInfluentialSelf-citation
Working memory training coupled with transcranial direct current stimulation in older adults: a randomized controlled experiment
Teixeira-Santos, A. C., Moreira, C. S., Pereira, D. R., Pinal, D., Fregni, F., Leite, J., Carvalho, S., & Sampaio, A. (2022) · Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience · doi:10.3389/fnagi.2022.827188 · Cited by 27 · see citing works
Plateaus and Asymptotes: Spurious and Real Limits in Human Performance
Gray, W. D. (2017) · Current Directions in Psychological Science · doi:10.1177/0963721416672904 · Cited by 22 · see citing works
Neural correlates of working memory training: An fMRI meta-analysis
Zhang, Y., Fu, J., & Zhao, X. (2024) · NeuroImage · doi:10.1016/j.neuroimage.2024.120885 · Cited by 20 · see citing works
Experimental Evaluation of Near‐ and Far‐Transfer Effects of an Adaptive Multicomponent Working Memory Training
Lange, S., & Süß, H. (2015) · Applied Cognitive Psychology · doi:10.1002/acp.3126 · Cited by 13 · see citing works
Change by challenge: A common genetic basis behind childhood cognitive development and cognitive training
Sauce, B., Wiedenhoeft, J., Judd, N., & Klingberg, T. (2021) · npj Science of Learning · doi:10.1038/s41539-021-00096-6 · Cited by 11 · see citing works
Training and asymmetrical transfer effects of working memory and inhibitory control in primary school children
Liu, H., Qi, Y., Zhang, H., Liang, Y., Lu, L., Zhou, J., Zhang, T., & Yu, X. (2023) · Journal of Experimental Child Psychology · doi:10.1016/j.jecp.2022.105603 · Cited by 10 · see citing works
Meta-analysis of computerised working memory training: behavioural gains, training parameters, transfer mechanisms, and neural correlates
Li, G., Liu, Y., & Chen, A. (2026) · npj Digital Medicine · doi:10.1038/s41746-026-02478-9 · Cited by 2 · see citing works
“Such transfer may re ﬂ ect working memory ’ s close interdependence with other cognitive domains and the partial overlap of their functional substrates, allowing working-memory-focused training to generalise — at least in part — to broader and more complex cognitive outcomes 16,17 .”

Working Memory Training in Norwegian Children with Cerebral Palsy (CP) Show Minimal Evidence of Near and No Far Transfer Effects
Beneventi, H., Løhaugen, G. C. C., Andersen, G. L., Sundberg, C., Østgård, H., Bakkan, E., Walther, G., Vik, T., & Skranes, J. (2023) · Developmental Neurorehabilitation · doi:10.1080/17518423.2023.2259985 · Cited by 4 · see citing works
Reviewing working memory training gains in healthy older adults: A meta-analytic review of transfer for cognitive outcomes
Teixeira-Santos, A. C., Moreira, C. S., Magalhães, R., Magalhães, C., Pereira, D. R., Leite, J., Carvalho, S., & Sampaio, A. (2019) · Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews · doi:10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.05.009 · Cited by 87 · see citing works
Cognitive and Linguistic Effects of Working Memory Training in Children With Corresponding Deficits
Pauls, L. J., & Archibald, L. M. D. (2022) · Frontiers in Education · doi:10.3389/feduc.2021.812760 · Cited by 9 · see citing works
The effectiveness of working memory training with individuals with intellectual disabilities – a meta-analytic review
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Authors: von Bastian, C. C., & Oberauer, K.
Affiliations: University of Zurich (CH)
ORCID: Oberauer, Klaus
Venue: Psychological Research
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Published: 2013-11-10
Volume: 78
Issue: 6
Pages: 803-820
ISSN: 0033-3026 (ISSN-L)
0340-0727
1430-2772
DOI: 10.1007/s00426-013-0524-6
OpenAlex: W2031909134
Semantic Scholar: c1ab7ecd7e5bbdd1be38cbe0b8068c5ab76f2221
Cited by: 318
References: 147
Citations by year: 2026: 19 · 2025: 18 · 2024: 19 · 2023: 28 · 2022: 26 · 2021: 32 · 2020: 39 · 2019: 36 · 2018: 23 · 2017: 30 · 2016: 28 · 2015: 14 · 2014: 5 · 2013: 1
FWCI: 2.65
Type: journal article
Language: en
Open access: green
www.zora.uzh.ch
Licence: other-oa
www.springer.com/tdm (tdm)
Locations: Psychological Research (publishedVersion)
PubMed (publishedVersion)
Zurich Open Repository and Archive (University of Zurich) (acceptedVersion, other-oa)
reroDoc Digital Library (submittedVersion)
Zurich Open Repository and Archive (University of Zurich) (submittedVersion, other-oa)
Zurich Open Repository and Archive (University of Zurich)
Topics: Social Sciences › Psychology › Experimental and Cognitive Psychology › Cognitive Abilities and Testing
Physical Sciences › Mathematics › Statistics and Probability › Cognitive and developmental aspects of mathematical skills
Social Sciences › Psychology › Experimental and Cognitive Psychology › Cognitive Functions and Memory
Keywords: working memory training, transfer of training, working memory capacity, chunking, exercise intensity, individual differences, motivation, personality factors, age differences, cognitive ability, training effectiveness
MeSH terms: Aging, Attention, Humans, Learning, Memory, Short-Term, Neuropsychological Tests, Transfer, Psychology

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Effects and mechanisms of working memory training: a review

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