Working memory and L2 reading: theoretical and methodological issues

Abstract

This article reviews research on working memory (WM) and its role in second language (L2) reading. After a brief theoretical account of WM, the article focuses on methods of measuring WM and issues surrounding its measurement. Next, the paper provides a review of studies on the relationship between L1 and L2 WM, their relationships with L2 reading, and the interaction between WM capacity and domain knowledge in terms of their effects on L2 reading comprehension. Conclusions regarding the role of WM in relation to literal and inferential reading are drawn and suggestions for further research are offered.

Keywords: Working memory; L2 reading; literal comprehension; inferential comprehension