Enhancing Working Memory: Exploring single-session tDCS Effects and Individual differences.

The aim of this thesis was to investigate the effects of non-invasive stimulation by tDCS on a working memory task, taking into account both stimulation protocols and individual differences, such as the use of strategies. Three tDCS stimulation protocols were used: placebo (placebo stimulation), F4 (stimulation of the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex), and P4 (stimulation of the right posterior parietal cortex). Individual differences, such as the use of strategies, were taken into account. The results indicate that stimulation alone had no significant effect on performance. However, a significant correlation was found between the effectiveness of self-reported strategy use and performance. No interaction between strategy use and stimulation was observed, suggesting that the type of stimulation did not promote strategy use more than placebo in a single session. These results suggest that individual differences, particularly strategy use, play a crucial role in the performance of working memory tasks, while the specific single-session tDCS protocols tested do not provide a clear advantage over placebo, and further research is needed.