Exploring the Effect of Working Memory and Cognitive Control on the EFL Learners Listening Ability

Listening comperhension has a prominent place in language programs and plays an important role in the learning process. Listening can be affected by a number of variables including cognitive control as a part of central executive system of memory. The present study sought to investigate the effect of working memory capacity on the listeningcomprehension of Iranian intermediate EFL learners. Additionally, the study explored the relationship between listening ability and cognitive control. In this regard, a convenient sample of 19 intermediate adult EFL learners, selected via Oxford Placement Test, volunteered to participate in the study. The data were collected through theadministration of four different tasks: a working memory test (reading span test), digit span task (both backward and forward), an online stroop task and TOEFL listening comprehension test. The working memory capacity (high and low) was elicited through reading span test while auditory working memory span was evaluated by the digit span task. To measure the learners cognitive flexibility and attention an online stoop task was further used. The data were then analyzed in terms of the participants performance on these tests. The initial results revealed no significant differences between high and low span groups in terms of their listening proficiency. In addition, there was a low correlation between the listening ability and both digit span tests. However, there was a moderate correlation between the listening ability and the stoop task. The obtained results can have significant implication for SLA psycholinguistic theories

کلیدواژه ها:

Cognitive control ، EFL learners ، listening ، working memory