The contributions of working memory and executive functioning to problem representation and solution generation in algebraic word problems

• Autores: Kerry Lee, Ee Lynn Ng, Swee Fong Ng
• Localización: Journal of educational psychology, ISSN-e 1939-2176, ISSN 0022-0663, Vol. 101, Nº. 2, 2009, págs. 373-387
• Idioma: inglés
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• Dialnet Métricas: 5 Citas
• Resumen

  • Solving algebraic word problems involves multiple cognitive phases. The authors used a multi task approach to examine the extent to which working memory and executive functioning are associated with generating problem models and producing solutions. They tested 255 II-year-olds on working memory (Counting Recall, Letter Memory, and Keep Track), ability to inhibit inappropriate responses (inhibition: numeric Stroop, Stop Signal), mental flexibility (switching: Number-Letter and Plus-Minus), English literacy, and algebraic problem-solving skills (problem representation, solution generation, and other subcomponents). Working memory explained about a quarter of the variance in both representation and solution formation. Literacy explained an additional 20% of the variance in representation formation. Ability to discern quantitative relationships explained an additional 10%. The findings go beyond a demonstration of an association between working memory and problem-solving accuracy. They show that success in word problems is particularly reliant on ability to decode and assign mathematical operators to quantitative relationships, 2 phases of problem solving that also draw heavily on working memory resources