Visuospatial memory in dyslexia: Evidence for strategic deficits

Alison M. Bacon, Fabrice B R Parmentier, Polly Barr

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

35 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Impairments in working memory are suggested to be one of the defining characteristics of dyslexia, and deficits in verbal recall are well documented. However, the situation regarding visuospatial memory is less clear. In a widely used measure, the Corsi blocks task, sequences of visuospatial locations can be recalled forwards, in the order presented (CF), or backwards, in reverse order (CB). Previous research has suggested that, while CF draws on spatial-sequential resources, CB may load executive and distinctly visual processes. While people with dyslexia typically show no deficit on CF, CB is rarely presented. We present three studies which indicate a consistent dyslexic deficit on CB that can be ameliorated by visual strategy instructions. Our data suggest that, without instruction, people with dyslexia are unable to adopt an effective CB strategy and this is consistent with a deficit in executive function. These results have implications for our understanding of visuospatial memory in dyslexia, and also in terms of the administration of the Corsi task to special populations.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)189-209
Number of pages21
JournalMemory
Volume21
Issue number2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Feb 2013
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Corsi
  • Dyslexia
  • Executive
  • Memory
  • Visuospatial

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Visuospatial memory in dyslexia: Evidence for strategic deficits'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this