SRCLD Presentation Details
  Title  
       
    Specific Language and Working Memory Impairments: Evidence and Learning Patterns  
Author(s)
Lisa Archibald - The University of Western Ontario

SRCLD Info
SRCLD Year: 2011
Presentation Type: Invited Speaker
Presentation Time: (na)
Abstract
Working memory or the ability to both store and process information has been associated with the learning of complex cognitive activities such as language. While working memory may constrain language learning, the question of whether deficits in working memory can account for developmental language impairments such as specific language impairment (SLI) is a matter of some debate. Taking an epidemiological approach, my work has examined the extent to which traditional language and working memory tests tap separable corresponding factors. This talk will focus on three sets of results. First, I will present findings related to the measurement of working memory, and in particular, identify tasks tapping domain-specific phonological storage and domain-general working memory. Relationships between these measures and traditional language tests will be examined. Second, I will review evidence distinguishing specific and co-occurring developmental impairments in language and/or working memory. The theoretical implications of developmental trends will be discussed. Finally, I will turn to results related to learning patterns in the impaired groups. Differences in word learning and school achievement further support these impaired groupings, and elucidate underlying processes and constraints on learning. This research was supported by the Natural Science and Engineering Research Council of Canada (371201-2009), and the University of Western Ontario Academic Development Fund (09-308).
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