Abstract:

Studies have indicated that working memory (WM) play an important role in mathematics learning. However, results reported with regard to the associations between working memory components and early mathematics learning were inconsistent. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to explore the strength of this relationship, and the factors affecting this relationship. In this meta-analysis, 307 effect sizes from 33 studies including 42423 children aged 3~8 years old were reviewed. The results indicated a strong correlation between working memory and mathematics learning. All working memory components were associated with mathematics learning, with the highest correlation between central executive (CE) and mathematics. As to the relationship between WM components and different mathematics abilities, CE didn’t show significant different relationships across different aspects of mathematics learning, phonological loop (PL) and visuospatial sketchpad (VSSP) both showed a significant closer relationship with number operation than number concept. In addition, Age had a significant effect on the correlation between CE, PL and mathematics learning. However, it didn’t have effect on the correlation between VSSP and mathematics. Literature review also helped to identify the shortcomings of previous studies, particularly focus of the studies was mostly on number concepts and number operations. More studies should focus on the area of geometry, space, and measurement in the future.

Key words: working memory, mathematics learning, early childhood, meta-analysis