Psychology

Topics in Psycholinguistics

The Role of Working Memory in Language Processing and Comprehension

Course Goals:

The purpose of this course is to examine current theories of working memory (WM) and the role of WM in language processing and comprehension. Our particular focus will be on WM limitations and how these give rise to individual differences in complex task performance, such as language processing. We will start by reviewing several theories about the nature of WM limitations. The class will decide which of these theories to pursue as a final class project. The project will involve the development of a research plan to pursue the topic. The class will propose a series of studies that could potentially form the basis of a grant proposal.

Readings:                   

The initial reading will be provided as PDF files on the course website.

Website:

The course website can be accessed through the MyUCDavis portal, http://my.ucdavis.edu.  You will find the syllabus and the initial course readings.

Grading:         

Grades will be based on in-class presentations of empirical research, the final class project, and in-class participation.