The Effectiveness of Working Memory Training on Planning and Executive Functions in Children with Learning Disabilities

Abstract: The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of working memory training on the planning and executive functions in children with learning disabilities. The method of the present study was quasi-experimental pretest-posttest with a control group. The statistical population of the present study included all LD children of Bushehr, Iran in 2021. The participants were 30 students who were selected by accessible sampling method and randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. Data were collected using the Tower of London (TOL) scale and Gioia et al. Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF). Working memory training using the protocol of Shaykh al-Islami et al. (2017) was presented to children with learning disabilities in the experimental group during 17 sessions. The control group did not receive any intervention during this period. The results showed that the training of working memory significantly increased the planning and components of executive functions (inhibition, working memory, shifting, planning/organizing and emotional control). These results confirmed the practical and theoretical importance of working memory training programs as methods of training planning and executive functions in L.D children.