iPost Research Byte: Digits backward measure of working memory (but memory span in adults)

Copy of complete article available here.

Backwards digit recall: A measure of short-term memory or working memory?

Author: Helen L. St Clair-Thompsona

Abstract

Backwards digit recall is often employed as a measure of working memory (e.g., Gathercole, Pickering, Ambridge, & Wearing, 2004). However, some researchers suggest that it may be better described as a task assessing short-term memory (e.g., Engle, Tuholski, Laughlin, & Conway, 1999). The present study explored the relationships between backwards digit recall and commonly used measures of short-term and working memory in children and in adults. The results suggested that backwards digit recall can best be described as a measure of working memory in children, but short-term memory in adults. The results are discussed in terms of both theoretical and practical implications for memory research.

Backwards digits Digit Span working memory Memory span Intelligence Gsm IQs Corner

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