| Previous studies have reported that utilizing strategy on a working memory span task can
enhance working memory performance (e.g., Turley-Ames & Whitfield, 2003). However, it is
unknown whether enhanced working memory performance may, in turn, improve subsequent
higher-order cognitive performance. The following study sought to investigate, in detail, the
effect of rote rehearsal strategy on working memory and reading comprehension using a pre-
posttest design. All participants completed a working memory span task and reading
comprehension test. At posttest, participants were either instructed to use a rote rehearsal
strategy on a span task or given no additional instructions. Following the span task (posttest), a
second reading comprehension test was administered. In addition to comparing differences in
scores (i.e., working span and reading comprehension) between groups, thought probes were
used to examine whether rote rehearsal training improved attention while reading. Participants in
the rote rehearsal group demonstrated an improvement in WM performance at posttest compared
to the control group. However, the enhanced WM performance did not transfer to reading
comprehension performance. Preliminary span group analyses may suggest that low span
individuals benefitted the most from strategy use. Results are discussed in terms of how strategy
utilization fits within the larger body of working memory literature.
Rote Rehearsal Strategy as a Technique to Enhance Working Memory Performance and Reading
Comprehension
Dissertation Abstract- -Idaho State University (2019)
Keywords: Working Memory, Strategy, Reading Comprehension |