Working memory capacity and strategy use in second language learning

Abstract

Abstract 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.