Publications

Publication details [#54676]

Gass, Susan M. and Junkyu Lee. 2011. Working memory capacity, inhibitory control, and proficiency in a second language. In Potowski, Kim and Jason Rothman, eds. Bilingual Youth. Spanish in English-speaking societies. (Studies in bilingualism 42). John Benjamins. pp. 59–84.
Publication type
Article in book
Publication language
English
Language as a subject
Place, Publisher
John Benjamins

Annotation

This paper investigates the relationship between working memory capacity and inhibitory control as a function of L2 proficiency. Students (n =121) in first and third year university Spanish classes were given L1 and L2 reading span tests and an L1 and L2 Stroop interference task. The two groups had significantly different L2, but not L1 working memory scores. The correlation between L1 and L2 working memory scores was significant for the 3rd year group, but not for the 1st year group. L2 proficiency did not affect inhibitory control. A model illustrating the interrelatedness of inhibition, proficiency and working memory capacity is proposed. Finally, we raise a methodological issue regarding the use of L2 working memory tests.