Self-Regulated Learning (SRL) Lab at Utah State University

Working memory is the ability to hold information in one's mind while manipulating information. For example, remembering the numbers of a math problem in your head or doing mental math.  If not important for some reason, the information we hold in working memory will not be stored in long-term memory.  You won't remember math problems you did in fourth grade but you will remember how to solve fourth grade math problems.

Buyer Beware!
Commercial programs exist for improving working memory.  You may have heard them advertised or seen them online.  One of the most popular is CogMed Working Memory Training.  Unfortunately, independent research does not support claims that these programs actually improve working memory.  Meta-analyses show that indepedent researchers find no affects or only short-term affects of this program (and others) to working memory.  If you would like to review the data yourself, the link below takes you to a careful meta-analysis of the data from the Journal of Applied Research in Memory and Cognition

Although we may not be able to improve working memory itself, we can use strategies that support our memory.  An easy example is making a list so we don't have to hold everything in memory. 

 

Strategies to Support Working Memory

• Reduce Strain on Your Working Memory

• "Learning Works" suggestions

• Yoga/Meditation/Mindfulness

• Other important Considerations

  • Adequate rest

  • Good nutrition

  • Exercise

  • Take breaks