Taking academic tests can be a stressful time for some young people and
especially for those with a history of elevated anxiety. However a study
published today (12 October 2012) in the British Journal of Psychology
shows that anxiety only has a negative effect on test results if memory
is also poor.. Furthermore if memory is good, increased anxiety is
associated with attaining better marks.
In this study 96 school
students aged between 12 and 14, from several schools, completed
measures of anxiety and working memory, using computer tests. Good
working memory predicts educational attainment. The students were then
tested for cognitive ability and maths performance.
It was found
that when working memory was poor, increased anxiety was associated with
low test scores. When working memory was good, anxiety was associated
with higher test results.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.