Final answer:
The study discussing digit span cross-linguistically implies that the phonological loop capacity, related to short-term memory, is approximately 7 ± 2 items, but recent research suggests a working memory capacity of 4 ± 1.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept that the digit span cross-linguistically implies a phonological loop capacity of 7 ± 2 items relates to short-term memory (STM), according to George Miller's seminal 1956 research. Contemporary studies, however, suggest that the capacity of working memory might be closer to 4 ± 1. STM is a critical part of the larger cognitive system of working memory that transiently holds and processes information. It is distinct from long-term memory, which has a vastly larger storage capacity and is responsible for storing information over extended periods.
Earlier research indicated that short-term memory capacity was believed to be around 7 plus or minus 2 items, but this has been refined by later studies. The capacity for this kind of memory is important for a variety of cognitive tasks, including language comprehension, learning, and reasoning. Researchers also found differences between memory for numbers and letters, and between acoustic and visual encoding, with a slight advantage for acoustic encoding of information.