Recognizing numbers in different scripts

Abstract

This paper considers the effects of different language scripts on the recognition of digits. It reports on two experiments with Arabic-speaking subjects in which they were asked to scan arrays of digits in both standard 'Western numeral' and 'Indian numeral' forms. It compares the array-scanning patterns observed with patterns observed with speakers of other languages, in particular with English native speakers. It discusses the implications of these findings in terms of the use of language-specific word recognition strategies.