Working Memory and Second Language Learning and Acquisition

Abstract

Working memory is an essential component in many cognitive tasks of everyday life and in learning and acquiring a language since it consists of holding an amount of information in mind. The aim of this study is to test whether working memory has an effect on second language learning and acquisition. To gather data a listening span test was administrated to fifth year primary school pupils aged from 9 to 14 years old. Results show that there is a relation between the capacity of working memory and second language learning and acquisition. The findings from this study indicate that the working memory has a major effect on second language learning and acquisition.