Working Memory Model research

Working Memory Model research

1. Dual task paradigm- this was done to test working memory. It was testing the ability of participants to complete two tasks in different modalities or the same modality. Typically, the participants performance on at least one of the tasks declines when asked to do two tasks using the same modality. For example, like driving and speaking.

   • Dual task paradigm- This is where participants perform a primary task whilst simultaneously performing a secondary task which is presumed to take up STM capacity. (Primary task: simple reasoning task which uses the central executive and a Secondary task: which makes use of the phonological loop, articulatory process.) This was able to take place because they are using different components, in the working memory model.

2. Phonological loop- (Baddeley) The Word Length Effect: Memory span for shorter words is greater than span for longer words. This is because there is finite space for rehearsal in the articulatory process (about two seconds)

   • Colle& Welsh- immediate recall of digits is impaired if accompanied by sound of someone reading German in English speakers. This is because unattended phonological material gains access to the phonological store and interfere with the recall of digits.

3. The visuo-spatial sketch pad- (Baddeley et al) He tested two tasks at the same time which involves the visuo-spatial sketchpad, this was difficult to accomplish because they are both competing for the same attention.

   • This lacked mundane realism, not an everyday task.
   • It is replicable, it was performed in a highly controlled environment and so control of extraneous variables. High internal validity, easy to establish cause and effect.

4. Neurological research- this shows that during different tasks, different areas of the brain are activated which supports the idea that they are disassociated and take up different parts of the brain. Bunge found that the central executive is located in the pre-frontal cortex.