Role of Executive Attentional Executive Function of Working Memory in Mathematical Performance

The present study investigated the role of attention executive function (shifting, inhibition and updating) of working memory in predicting mathematic performance of second grade students. Therefore, 182 students from elementary schools of Tabriz city were selected by multistage sampling and completed Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, stroop task, Keep track task and math performance test. Results of stepwise multivariate regression analysis revealed that among attentional executive function of working memory, inhibition was the strongest predictor in explaining variance of math. Hence, attentional executive function of working memory as a cognitive activity in learning is essential. Thus, the capacity and performance of learners’ working memory have positive effects on efficiency of training process, designing and providing educational materials all of which aim to create, expand or facilitate learning and academic achievement.