Chapter 6: Memory Flashcards
Memory
The retention of information or experience over time as a result of three key processes: encoding, storage, and retrieval
Encoding
The first step in memory; the process by which information gets into memory storage
Divided attention
Concentrating on more than one activity at a time
Sustained attention
The ability to maintain attention to a selected stimulus for a prolonged period of time
Executive attention
The ability to plan action, allocate attention to goals, detect errors and compensate for them, monitor progress on tasks, and deal with novel or difficult circumstances
Levels of processing
A continuum of memory processing from shallow to intermediate to deep, with deeper processing producing better memory
Elaboration
The formation of a number of different connection around a stimulus at a given level of memory encoding
Storage
The retention of information over time and how this information is represented in memory
Atkinson-shiffrin theory
Theory stating that memory storage involves three separate systems: sensory memory, short term memory, and long term memory
Sensory memory
Memory systems that involve holding information from the world in its original sensory form for only an instant, not much longer than the brief time it is exposed to the visual, auditory, and other senses
Echotic memory
Refers to auditory sensory memory, which is retained for up to several seconds
Iconic memory
Refers to visual sensory memory which is only retained for around 0.25 second
Short-term memory
Limited-capacity memory system in which information is usually retained for only as long as 30 seconds unless strategies are used to retain it longer
Chunking
Involves grouping or packing information that exceeds the 7+/-2 memory span into higher order units that can be remembered as single units
Working memory
A combination of components, including short-term memory and attention, that allow individuals to hold memory temporarily as they preform cognitive tasks; a kind of mental workbench on which the brain manipulates and assembles information to guide problem solving, understanding, and decision making
Phonological loop (working memory)
Specialized to briefly store speech based information about the sound of language
Visuo-spatial sketchpad
Stores visual and spatial memory, including visual imagery