The Relations Between Working Memory Span And Forward Inference Versus Backward Inference In Text Reading

Time courses of forward versus backward inference in reading were examined with naming method, using 2 × 2 × 2 independent design. The results indicated: (1) working memory span influences processing course of forward versus backward inference. High span may accelerate processing course, while low span constrains processing course. (2) Under 300ms delay condition, high-span readers may draw backward inference on-line but not forward inference, while low-span readers draw neither forward nor backward inference. (3) All readers can draw inference under 1000ms delay condition, that is, forward versus backward inference were drawn on-line, but low-span readers need time to construct inferences.