Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 10, 2026

Memorization-Based Training and Testing Paradigm for Robust Vocal Identity Recognition in Expressive Speech Using Event-Related Potentials Analysis
Published on: August 9, 2024
The role of vocal practice in constructing phonological working memory
Tamar Keren-Portnoy1, Marilyn M Vihman, Rory A DePaolis
1Department of Language and Linguistic Science, University of York, Heslington, York YO10 5DD, United Kingdom. tkp502@york.ac.uk
Vocal practice significantly impacts phonological working memory in toddlers. Familiarity with speech sounds and words, especially real words, enhances nonword repetition skills.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Linguistics
- Speech-Language Pathology
Background:
- Phonological working memory is crucial for language acquisition.
- The relationship between speech production and phonological working memory is not fully understood.
- Early vocal experiences may shape cognitive abilities related to language.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of vocal practice on phonological working memory in young children.
- To determine if experience with consonant production influences nonword repetition.
- To examine how familiarity with speech sounds and words affects memory performance.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal study design was employed.
- Naturalistic observations and a nonword repetition test were utilized.
- Fifteen 26-month-olds, with 12 followed from 11 months, participated.
Main Results:
- A strong correlation was observed between consonant production experience and nonword repetition ability.
- Differential experience with specific consonants predicted performance on tailored nonword tasks.
- Repetition accuracy was highest for real words, followed by familiar nonwords, and lowest for unfamiliar nonwords.
Conclusions:
- Speech production plays a vital role in the development of phonological working memory.
- Familiarity with word components is a key factor in successful nonword repetition.
- These findings highlight the interconnectedness of motor-speech and cognitive processes in early development.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Working Memory
Elaborative Rehearsals
The effectiveness of...
Chunking and Rehearsal in Sensory Memory
Higher Mental Functions of the Brain: Language
Language formation and comprehension take place in the dominant hemisphere. The dominant hemisphere is responsible for understanding the meaning of spoken, written, or sign language, as well as the ability to communicate. For most people, the left hemisphere is the dominant one. The right hemisphere, then, gives tone and emotional context to the...
Larynx
Anatomy of the Larynx
The larynx consists of various components, including cartilage, muscles, and vocal cords. Its structure includes three large unpaired cartilages—the thyroid, cricoid, and epiglottis—and three smaller paired cartilages—the arytenoids, corniculates, and...
Role of Hippocampus in Memory

