Effects of Regular Switching between Languages during Random Number Generation

Random number generation is a task that engages working memory and executive processes within the domain of number representation. In the present study we address the role of language in number processing by switching languages during random number generation (numbers 1–9), using German (L1) and Eng...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Perceptual and motor skills 2005-04, Vol.100 (2), p.524-534
Main Authors: Strenge, Hans, Böhm, Jessica
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adult
Analysis of Variance
Attention - physiology
Cognition & reasoning
Female
Frontal Lobe - physiology
Humans
Language
Languages
Male
Mathematics
Memory
Memory - physiology
Multilingualism
Neuropsychological Tests
Numbers
Problem Solving - physiology
Psychomotor Performance - physiology
Verbal Behavior - physiology
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Summary:Random number generation is a task that engages working memory and executive processes within the domain of number representation. In the present study we address the role of language in number processing by switching languages during random number generation (numbers 1–9), using German (L1) and English (L2), and alternating L1/L2. Results indicate large correspondence between performance in L1 and L2. In contrast to nonswitching performance, randomization with alternating languages showed a significant increase of omitted responses, whereas the random sequences were less stereotyped, showing significantly less repetition avoidance and cycling behavior. During an intentional switch between languages, errors in language sequence appeared in 23% of responses on the average, independently of the quality of randomization but associated with a clear persistence of L2. These results indicate that random number generation is more closely linked to auditory-phonological representation of numerals than to visual arabic notation.
ISSN:0031-5125
1558-688X
DOI:10.2466/pms.100.2.524-534