Diamond et al. (2007)

Brain development, executive function, and education

Method

Experimental (educational intervention)

Theory

• Executive functions (EF) develop in the prefrontal cortex.

• EF includes working memory, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility — crucial for learning.

Aim

To test whether enriched preschool programs improve EF in children.

Sample

Preschool children (~age 4) in an educational intervention program

Proc

• Compared standard vs. enriched curriculum (e.g., play, problem-solving tasks).

• EF assessed through behavioral tasks.

Results

• Children in enriched programs showed better EF (especially inhibitory control).

Con

• EF can be improved through targeted education, supporting experience-dependent brain development.

Strengths

• Experimental design → supports causal claims.

• Real-world application → helps design better preschool programs.

Limitations

• short-term effects → unclear if benefits last long-term.

• Other variables (teacher quality, home environment) may influence results