Basic Research of English On-line Processing of Written and Spoken Languages Based on Memory Model

本研究调查了日本英语学习者对书面语和口语的个体差异加工特点。它考察了不同人的工作记忆是如何变化的，特别关注处理速度和注意力，并将以日语为母语的人与以英语为母语的人进行了比较。每个参与者都接受了各种测试，包括阅读广度(RST)、听力广度(LST)、计算广度(CST)和数字广度(DST)。RST测量阅读速度、句子理解能力，并调查回忆的特点。LST还测量了回忆和句子理解的特点，并以自然速度进行。CST和DST是为了测量语言能力以外的认知能力。这项研究表明，正是由于认知特点，日本英语学习者很难快速、连续地处理输入的语言信息，并只保留重要的信息。

This study investigates the characteristics of individual different processing of written language and spoken language by Japanese EFL learners. It looks at how working memory varies in different individuals, focusing especially on processing speed and attention and comparing Japanese native speakers to English native speakers. Each participant is given a variety of tests of reading span (the RST), listening span (the LST), calculation span (the CST) and digit span (the DST). The RST measures reading speed, sentence comprehension and investigates the characteristics of recall. The LST also measures the characteristics of recall as well as sentence comprehension and it is conducted at natural speed. The CST and the DST are administered in order to measure cognitive abilities apart from language abilities. This study makes it clear that it is cognitive characteristics that make it hard for Japanese EFL learners to process rapidly and serially incoming linguistic information and retain only the important information.