Working memory training (n-back task) improves fluid intelligence (Gf) 3-4 IQ points

Interesting meta-analysis suggestingthat working memory training, via the n-back task, over a relatively short period of time, can improve fluid intelligence/reasoning (Gf). Conservative estimate of 3-4 Gf IQ points improvement. Click on images to enlarge.









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The brain's "stop and go" mechanisms: The basal ganglia weighs in

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Research Bytes: What is cognitive efficiency--conceptual and methodological models

Cognitive efficiency has become a hot construct in the psychometric measurement of intelligence. However, not much conceptual or methodological foundation work has addressed the issue of "what is CE" and "what methodological model should be used?"

Hoffman and associates have written some interesting conceptual articles that we in the area of intelligence testing may want to review to add some clarity to the measurement and interpretation of our CE measures on IQ batteries. Below are two recent articles.

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Arts training improves cognition via attention: More support for IQ brain clock fine tunning hypothesis

I just read an interesting post at Cerebrum regarding the impact of training in the arts and improved cognition, hypothesized to occur due to improvement in attention.

I find the research very consistent with the proposed link between the mental timing (IQ Brain Clock) and improved cognitive performance, which has been hypothesized to impact the same basic cognitive functions (esp., controlled executive attention and executive functions).  I've blogged and PPT'd extensively at this blog, esp. with re: to neurotechnologies that focus on synchronized metronome tapping, a technology that deals with rhythm perception and production.

In my opinion, the research discussed at the Cerebrum adds to the growing literature suggesting a link between "fine tuning the temporal resolution of the brain clock" and improved cognitive efficiency.  Amy Vega and I recently published a research review report supporting the link between brain rhythm-based treatments and improvement in a diverse array of human performance domains. 

Technorati Tags: psychology, educational psychology, school psychology, neuropsychology, neurotechnology, music, music therapy, metronome, Ineractive Metronome, synchronized metronome tapping, executive function, attention, controlled executive attention, mental timing, brain rhythm, rhythm perception, rhythm perception, IQ Brain Clock