The effect of non-verbal working memory on graphic symbol selection. (3rd April 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shin, Sangeun; Park, HyunJu
• Is Part Of: Augmentative and alternative communication. Volume 38:Number 2(2022)
• Page Start: 82
• Page End: 90
• Publication Date: 2022-04-03
• Subjects: Adults -- augmentative and alternative communication -- backward matrix -- graphic symbols -- non-verbal working memory; People with disabilities -- Means of communication -- Periodicals; Communication devices for people with disabilities -- Periodicals; 616.85503
• DOI: 10.1080/07434618.2022.2086909
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0743-4618

Abstract

Abstract: To identify the relationship between non-verbal working memory and graphic symbol selection, this study examined whether the response time to select target symbols in a sentence construction task differed between two groups: a high non-verbal working memory group and a low non-verbal working memory group. The interaction effect between non-verbal working memory skills and the degree of exposure to graphic symbols was also examined. Thirty-two non-disabled young adults participated in this study. Based on the quartile of the participants' scores on the non-verbal working memory task (i.e., the backward matrix task), data were selected from the sentence construction task completed by seven participants who belonged to the 25%ile and less and seven who belonged to the 75%ile and more; these data were used to examine group differences. A Mann–Whitney U test showed that non-verbal working memory skills had a significant effect on graphic symbol selection, as the high non-verbal working memory group combined three symbols faster than did the low memory group. No significant interaction effect was found between non-verbal working memory skills and the degree of exposure to symbols. The theoretical and clinical implications of the research findings are discussed.