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Updated: Apr 26, 2026
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Working Memory Training for Older Participants: A Control Group Training Regimen and Initial Intellectual Functioning Assessment
Published on: September 20, 2020
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Effects of action video game training on visual working memory
Kara J Blacker1, Kim M Curby2, Elizabeth Klobusicky3
1Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Johns Hopkins University.
Summary
Action video game training can enhance visual working memory (VWM) capacity and precision. This engaging training method offers a novel approach to improving the limited VWM system.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Human-Computer Interaction
Background:
- Visual working memory (VWM) is crucial for daily tasks but has limited capacity.
- Research is exploring training methods to improve VWM.
- Action video games are known to provide perceptual and attentional benefits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if action video game training enhances the quantity and quality of information stored in VWM.
- To compare the effects of action video game training versus a control game on VWM.
Main Methods:
- A training paradigm was used to assess VWM changes.
- Participants were trained on either an action video game or a control game.
- VWM was measured using a change detection task and a complex span measure.
Main Results:
- Action video game training significantly increased VWM capacity.
- Some improvements in VWM precision were observed with action game training.
- Benefits did not extend to complex span measures of VWM.
Conclusions:
- Action video game training can enhance visual working memory capacity and precision.
- This training method offers a unique and engaging way to improve VWM.
- Improvements are not attributable to motivation, engagement, or baseline differences.
