Effect of Working Memory Training on EFL Learners’ Vocabulary Retention: The Case of Dual N-Back Task

This study examined the effect of working memory training on vocabulary recall of Iranian EFL learners using dual N-back task technique. To this end, 50 EFL learners at Islamic Azad University of Shoushtar were randomly assigned to the experimental (n = 25) and control (n = 25) groups. Before the treatment, a vocabulary test was administered to the participants to assess the participants’ vocabulary knowledge of the target words. The participant were taught 100 English words in 20 sessions. In each session, the experimental group also received dual n-back task to train the participants’ working memory. Three weeks after the last treatment session, the vocabulary test was administered again. The obtained data were analyzed through two-way repeated measure ANOVA and independent samples t-tests. The results showed that the experimental group outperformed the control group in target words’ retention. Implications arising from the findings and suggestions for further research are also explained.