The case for an ecological approach to cognitive training
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Updated: Apr 27, 2026

Orienteering as a Tool for Cognitive Research: An Implementation Guide
Published on: November 29, 2024
David Moreau1, Andrew R A Conway1
1Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA.
Abstract:
Strong claims have been made about the efficacy of cognitive training. In particular, the idea that working memory (WM) training enhances intelligence initially generated enthusiasm but, on further inspection, is now met with skepticism. In our view, this is an unfortunate setback due to inappropriate task design and does not refute the core idea of cognitive enhancement. Growing evidence suggests that successful training programs integrate complexity, novelty, and diversity to maximize ecological validity.
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