Graduates could improve performances at interviews by using Facebook, playing video war games or solving Sudoku puzzles, an expert has said.
The popular activities help enhance the "working memory" and allow candidates to match answers to questions, it is claimed. The working memory involves the ability to remember information and use it. However, graduates would be advised to steer clear of text-messaging, mini-blogging on "Twitter" and watching video website YouTube, as they weaken the working memory.
Dr Tracy Alloway, a psychologist from the University of Stirling in Scotland, said the working memory is more important to happiness and success than IQ.
Dr Alloway's team used "Jungle Memory", a working memory training programme, on a group of slow-learning 11 to 14-year-old children in Durham. The children experienced a 10 point increase in their performance in literacy, numeracy and IQ tests after the training, while children previously at the bottom of the class ended up near the top.
The planning and strategy involved in video war games can also train the working memory. Dr Alloway said: "I'm not saying they're good for your socialisation skills, but they do make you use your working memory."
