Cognitive Training

Computerised "brain training" or "mental exercise" programs promise to enhance cognitive abilities such as working memory and reasoning. Although often claimed otherwise by commercial cognitive training products, empirical evidence regarding the effectiveness of cognitive training is still inconclusive. Given the resounding success and sustained market growth of commercial cognitive training products, it is of major importance to examine the scientific basis of cognitive enhancement through computer-based training. There are only few studies investigating the mechanisms underlying training and transfer effects. In a large-scale study we examine the impact of cognitive training on a broad set of transfer tasks assessing reasoning, shifting, inhibition, and multiple working memory processes.