ERIC Number: EJ1372767
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2022-Oct
Pages: 25
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0022-0663
EISSN: EISSN-1939-2176
What Mediates the Relationship between Growth in Math Problem-Solving and Working Memory in English Language Learners?
Swanson, H. Lee; Arizmendi, Genesis D.; Li, Jui-Teng
Journal of Educational Psychology, v114 n7 p1608-1632 Oct 2022
This study explored the role of growth in the executive components of working memory (WM) on second language (L2) mathematical problem-solving in elementary school children who are emerging bilinguals whose first language (L1) is Spanish. To this end, children (N = 429) in Grades 1, 2, and 3 at Wave 1 were administered a battery of math, reading, vocabulary, and cognitive (short-term memory [STM], working memory [WM], rapid naming, and inhibition) measures. The battery of tests was administered again 1 year and 2 years later to the same participants. Four important findings emerged: (a) growth in the executive of WM was significantly related to growth in L2 math problem-solving independent of growth in reading, vocabulary, fluid intelligence, inhibition, and rapid naming speed; (b) a Nonmath achievement/aptitude (i.e., reading, vocabulary) model provided a better fit to the data than domain-specific math and process models; (c) the relationship between WM and L2 math problem-solving was significantly mediated by L1 mathematical problem-solving and English vocabulary; and (d) the influence of WM on L2 math problem-solving was unidirectional. Taken together, this is the first comprehensive study of the link between growth in WM and growth in emerging bilingual children's mathematical problem-solving in 2 language systems. The results are discussed within the context of four models that assess the contribution of WM in predictions of later math problem-solving in emergent bilingual children.
Descriptors: Problem Solving, Mathematics Education, Short Term Memory, English Language Learners, Elementary School Students, English (Second Language), Grade 1, Grade 2, Grade 3, Academic Achievement, Predictor Variables, Student Development, Achievement Tests, Second Language Learning, Cognitive Processes
American Psychological Association. Journals Department, 750 First Street NE, Washington, DC 20002. Tel: 800-374-2721; Tel: 202-336-5510; Fax: 202-336-5502; e-mail: order@apa.org; Web site: http://www.apa.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Education; Early Childhood Education; Grade 1; Primary Education; Grade 2; Grade 3
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: National Science Foundation (NSF)
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Assessments and Surveys: Woodcock Johnson Tests of Achievement; Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children; Woodcock Munoz Language Survey; Woodcock Reading Mastery Test; Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test; Expressive One Word Picture Vocabulary Test; Raven Progressive Matrices
Grant or Contract Numbers: 1660828