Vol. 169:2 (2018) ► pp.262–292
Vol. 169:2 (2018) ► pp.262–292
Working memory capacity and strategy use in second language learning
This study investigated the relationship between working memory capacity (WMC) and second language learning strategies. To this end, 151 participants took three working memory tasks: one simple span task and two complex span tasks. They then completed the Strategy Inventory for Language Learning (SILL). Finally, they were put into three groups of individuals with high, mid, and low WMC. The results of descriptive and inferential statistics (one-way ANOVA tests) revealed that individuals with high WMC reportedly used compensatory and cognitive strategies more than the other two groups. Then, two-way factorial designs of WMC with the variables of age, sex, and language proficiency were conducted on reported frequency of compensatory and cognitive strategy use. The findings demonstrated that the main and interaction effects of the variables were not statistically significant except for WMC. This study has implications for language learning strategies and working memory studies in second language learning settings.
Article outline
- 1.Introduction
- 2.Significance of the study
- 2.1Language learning strategies
- 2.1.1WM as a link between language learning strategies and self-regulation
- 2.1.2WM as a cognitive individual difference in language learning strategies
- 2.1.3WM and language learning strategies by age, sex, and language proficiency
- Age
- Sex
- Proficiency
- 2.2WM studies
- 2.1Language learning strategies
- 3.Research questions
- 4.Method
- 4.1Participants
- 4.2Materials
- 4.2.1WM tasks
- 4.2.2Strategy Inventory for Language Learning (SILL) (50-item Version 7.0 for English as a second or foreign language)
- 4.2.3Language proficiency
- 4.3Data collection procedures
- 4.4Data analysis procedure
- 5.Results
- 5.1WM measures: Reliability and validity
- 5.2The SILL: Reliability and validity
- 5.3WMC levels and the SILL
- 5.3.1Descriptive statistics
- 5.3.2Inferential statistics
- 6.Discussion
- 7.Conclusion and implications
- Language learning strategies
- WM studies
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References
https://doi.org/10.1075/itl.17011.naj