Work

What is working memory capacity, and how can we measure it?

Year: 2013

Type: article

Abstract: A latent variable study examined whether different classes of working-memory tasks measure the same general construct of working-memory capacity (WMC). Data from 270 subjects were used to examine the relationship between Binding, Updating, Recall-N-back, and Complex Span tasks, and the relations of WMC with secondary memory measures, indicators of cognitive control from two response-conflict paradigms (Simon task and Eriksen flanker task), and fluid intelligence. Confirmatory factor analyses support the concept of a general WMC factor. Results from structural-equation modeling show negligible relations of WMC with response-conflict resolution, and very strong relations of WMC with secondary memory and fluid intelligence. The findings support the hypothesis that individual differences in WMC reflect the ability to build, maintain and update arbitrary bindings.

Source: Frontiers in Psychology

DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2013.00433

Authors: Oliver Wilhelm, Andrea Hildebrandt, Klaus Oberauer

Institutions: Universität Ulm, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, University of Zurich

Language: English

Topic: Cognitive Abilities and Testing

Subfield: Experimental and Cognitive Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801

Funder: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft