Working Memory and Mathematics Performance

• Main Authors: Raul Rifaie, Ronney, Mohamad Azhari, Abu Bakar
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Persatuan Penyelidik Latihan Kemahiran dan Vokasional (Association for Researcher of Skills & Vocational Training – ARSVOT), Shah Alam. 2024
• Subjects: BF Psychology
• Online Access: http://ir.unimas.my/id/eprint/46859/1/DOKUMEN%203.pdf; http://ir.unimas.my/id/eprint/46859/; https://journalarsvot.com/index.php/aspen/article/view/585; https://doi.org/10.53797/aspen.v4i2.3.2024

This study investigated the relationship between working memory and mathematics performance. It is a correlational study utilising experimental tasks to investigate the relationship, using backwards digit span task to test working memory and a simple maths quiz for maths performance. Thirty (30) participants from psychology undergraduates were involved. The result showed a positive relationship between working memory and maths performance based on total correct recall, whilst a negative relationship was found between working memory and maths performance based on total time taken. This indicates the existence of a significant relationship between verbal working memory and maths. Working memory is related to the mathematical aspects of manipulation of numerical value and the procedures involved in solving maths problems, thus more correct answers and lesser time taken with the increase of working memory level. Further study is recommended to explore the role of attention in working memory in retrieval speed of information as it is implied from the non-normal distribution of the data.