The neural correlates of working memory training in typically developing children.

Authors
Adlam, Anna-Lynne R 
Benattayallah, Abdelmalek 
Milton, Fraser N 

Change log
Abstract

Working memory training improves children's cognitive performance on untrained tasks; however, little is known about the underlying neural mechanisms. This was investigated in 32 typically developing children aged 10-14 years (19 girls and 13 boys) using a randomized controlled design and multi-modal magnetic resonance imaging (Devon, UK; 2015-2016). Training improved working memory performance and increased intrinsic functional connectivity between the bilateral intraparietal sulci. Furthermore, improvements in working memory were associated with greater recruitment of the left middle frontal gyrus on a complex span task. Repeated engagement of fronto-parietal regions during training may increase their activity and functional connectivity over time, affording greater working memory performance. The plausibility of generalizable cognitive benefits from a neurobiological perspective and implications for neurodevelopmental theory are discussed.

Publication Date
2022-05
Online Publication Date
2021-12-13
Acceptance Date
Keywords
Brain Mapping, Child, Female, Frontal Lobe, Humans, Learning, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Male, Memory, Short-Term, Parietal Lobe
Journal Title
Child Dev
Journal ISSN
0009-3920
1467-8624
Volume Title
Publisher
Wiley
Sponsorship
Economic and Social Research Council (1490438)