3.3 Memory Flashcards
Memory
Encoding, Storage and Retrieval of information.
Memories include past experiences, knowledge and thoughts.
Pathway of Information
Path of information entering the brain goes from sensory memory to short-term memory (STM) and transferral to long-term memory (LTM).
Sensory Memory
Lasts a few seconds and retains all of the visual or auditory input.
Short Term Memory (STM)
Lasts approximately 30 seconds and can hold 7 +/- 2 pieces of information = memory span.
Chunking
Can improve the capacity of STM.
Serial Position Effect
- most recent items recalled as still in STM
- items in middle of sequence displaced
- first items recalled as transferred to long term memory by process of rehearsal
Loss of Information
Information can be lost from the STM due to displacement or decay.
Displacement
‘old’ items are pushed out by new incoming information.
Decay
The breakdown of a fragile ‘memory trace’ formed when a group of
neurons briefly became activated.
LTM Capacity
An unlimited capacity & holds information for a long time.
STM to LTM
Information can be transferred from STM to LTM due to rehearsal, organisation and elaboration.
STM to LTM
Information can be transferred from STM to LTM due to rehearsal, organisation and elaboration.
Rehersal
The repetition of items.
Rehearsal of information improves retention within the short term memory.
Organisation
Organisation of memories is the grouping information into related groups.
Elaboration of Meaning
Adding meaning to information.
