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. 2021 Jul;85(5):1986-1996.
doi: 10.1007/s00426-020-01382-5. Epub 2020 Jul 10.

Using working memory performance to predict mathematics performance 2 years on

Katie Allen  1 , David Giofrè  2 , Steve Higgins  3 , John Adams  4
Affiliations

Using working memory performance to predict mathematics performance 2 years on

Katie Allen et al. Psychol Res. 2021 Jul.

Abstract

A number of previous studies have used working memory components to predict mathematical performance in a variety of ways; however, there is no consideration of the contributions of the subcomponents of visuospatial working memory to this prediction. In this paper we conducted a 2-year follow-up to the data presented in Allen et al. (Q J Exp Psychol 73(2):239-248, 2020b) to ascertain how these subcomponents of visuospatial working memory related to later mathematical performance. 159 children (M age = 115.48 months) completed the maths test for this second wave of the study. Results show a shift from spatial-simultaneous influence to spatial-sequential influence, whilst verbal involvement remained relatively stable. Results are discussed in terms of their potential for education and future research.

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Conflict of interest statement

There are no known conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
SEM model for working memory, mathematics T1 and T2. Solid lines represent statistically significant paths (p < 0.05)
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Theoretical model for the relationship between WM factors with observed mathematical subtests
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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    1. Allen K, Higgins S, Adams J. The Relationship between visuospatial working memory and mathematical performance in school-aged children: A systematic review. Educational Psychology Review. 2019 doi: 10.1007/s10648-019-09470-8. - DOI
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