A Meta-Analysis on Working Memory Capacity and Second Language Capacity

Abstract

Abstract: This study aims to discuss the correlation between working memory (WM)capacityand second language (L2)capacity according to domestic and foreign research papers, and to find the potential moderate variables that influence the correlation. Through literature searching and meta-analysis method, a total of 63 case studies that selected from 1992 to 2014 were applied to the depth analysis and research. The results indicated that working memory capacity had a moderate positive correlation with second language capacity(effect size: 0.358). The measurement of WM, content of WM and language of WM could regulate the correlation between WM and L2 capacity.

Key words: working memory, working memory capacity, second language, meta-analysis, moderate effect

摘要： 运用元分析的方法，探讨在中外研究中工作记忆容量与第二语言水平的相关性和影响二者相关的潜在调节变量。通过文献搜索和筛选，共选择63项研究进行分析，时间跨度为1992-2014。结果发现，工作记忆容量与第二语言水平存在中等程度的正相关，效应值为0.358。调节效应检验发现文化背景、工作记忆测量方法、测量内容、测量语言有调节作用。结论：工作记忆容量与第二语言水平之间存在中等程度的正相关，文化背景和工作记忆测量调节二者之间的相关。

关键词: 工作记忆, 工作记忆容量, 第二语言, 元分析, 调节作用

CLC Number:

B842.3

Song Ying, Zhang Shouchen, Liu Hangyu. A Meta-Analysis on Working Memory Capacity and Second Language Capacity[J]. Studies of Psychology and Behavior, 2016, 14(3): 311-317.

宋颖,张守臣,刘航宇. 工作记忆容量与第二语言水平关系的元分析[J]. 心理与行为研究, 2016, 14(3): 311-317.

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