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

S-Tier
Journal: Journal of Political Economy
Year: 2025
Volume: 133
Issue: 2
Pages: 492 - 521

Authors (5)

Eva M. Berger (not in RePEc) Ernst Fehr (Universität Zürich) Henning Hermes (CESifo) Daniel Schunk (not in RePEc) Kirsten Winkel (not in RePEc)

Score contribution per author:

1.609 = (α=2.01 / 5 authors) × 4.0x S-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

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.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:ucp:jpolec:doi:10.1086/732884
Journal Field
General
Author Count
5
Added to Database
2026-01-25