Word length and phonological similarity effects in simple, complex and delayed serial recall tasks: implications for working memory

Abstract

[Abstract]: Current models of working memory diverge on the assumption that short-term memory does or does not support more active working memory performance. Some models argue that STM is not involved and yet other models argue that short-term memory and working memory have common storage facilities. We examine these issues by exploring two signature effects of the phonological loop, the word length and phonological similarity effects, within tasks that measure the phonological loop, central executive and LTM. The finding that all three tasks show word length and phonological similarity effects suggests that common short-term storage mechanisms are involved in all tasks.