Can Computer Games Improve Children's Working Memory?

A randomized, controlled trial found no benefits of computerized working memory training compared with usual teaching in first graders, even in those with learning or behavioral problems.

Computerized working memory training is becoming more popular for helping children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but clinical trial results are mixed. To examine whether children with certain characteristics — cognitive delay, high hyperactive/inattentive symptoms, elevated emotional or behavioral symptoms, special healthcare needs — have a greater response to working memory training, investigators analyzed data from a large randomized, controlled trial in Australia. About 450 first graders (average age, 6.9 years) with low working memory were randomized to usual teaching or the Cogmed program (use of computerized memory games daily at school for 30–45 minutes for at least 20 sessions).

Working memory improvements — d…

Reviewing Author

Jenny Radesky, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardMelissa & Doug Toys (Consultant and Board of Directors)

Grant/Research SupportNational Institute for Child Health and Development; National Institutes of Health

Jenny Radesky, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardMelissa & Doug Toys (Consultant and Board of Directors)

Grant/Research SupportNational Institute for Child Health and Development; National Institutes of Health

Can Computer Games Improve Children's Working Memory?

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Reviewing Author