What type of training was used to improve WM in the Klinberg et al study?

• A. Paper-and-pencil training
• B. Computer-based training
• C. Tutored verbal rehearsal
• D. Mindfulness meditation

Answer: (B)

Computer-based, adaptive training was used to improve working memory. In this approach, participants engage with a software program (often something like Cogmed) that presents a sequence of tasks designed to tax working memory—holding, updating, and manipulating information. The key is that the program continuously adjusts the difficulty based on how well the person is performing, ensuring the tasks stay challenging enough to drive improvement.

This method contrasts with static, paper-and-pencil tasks, which don’t provide the same real-time adaptation or the same breadth of memory-loads. It also isn’t merely a tutoring strategy focusing on verbal rehearsal, nor is it mindfulness meditation, which targets attention regulation and emotional control rather than structured working-memory exercises. The computer-based, adaptive format is what Klingberg and colleagues used to target the WM system directly and examine its trainability.