The Critical Role of Working Memory in Academic Achievement

Far too many culinary arts educators are unaware of the critical role that working memory plays in student’s ability to perform cognitive and academic tasks, such as reading, note taking, and studying for tests (memorization). In this article, we provide research that suggests working memory may be uniquely responsible for the difficulties faced by culinary students in the kitchen and classroom. This literature review not only defines working memory but describes its functionality based on the work of key researchers in the field and gives practical recommendations to apply this knowledge in culinary arts education. The vital role that working memory plays in teaching and learning should give teachers great pause and make them re-examine their approach to instructional design to enhance the academic achievement potential of culinary students.