Developmental change in the relation between simple and complex spans: a meta-analysis

Dev Psychol. 2011 Jul;47(4):1012-25. doi: 10.1037/a0021794.

Abstract

In the present meta-analysis the effects of developmental level on the correlation between simple and complex span tasks were investigated. Simple span-complex span correlation coefficients presented in 52 independent samples (7,060 participants) were regressed on a variable representing mean age of sample (range: 4.96-22.80 years), using analyses adapted for meta-analytic purposes. The results showed strong positive relations between mean age of sample and simple span-complex span correlation coefficients, suggesting that the relation between simple and complex span tasks became stronger with increasing age. These results could not be accounted for by study-related differences in measurement reliability, restricted range, or sample size. A new theoretical account explaining these findings is outlined.

Publication types

  • Meta-Analysis
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Databases, Factual / statistics & numerical data
  • Human Development / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Memory / classification
  • Memory / physiology*
  • Regression Analysis
  • Time Factors