Unit 7 Flashcards
Encoding
The processing of information into the memory system-for example, by extracting meaning.
Storage
The process of retaining encoded information over time.
Retrieval
The process of getting information out of memory storage.
Parallel processing
The processing of many aspects of a problem simultaneously; the brain’s natural mode of information processing for many functions. Contrasts with the step-by-step (serial) processing of most computers and of conscious problem solving.
Sensory memory
The immediate, very brief recording of sensory information in the memory system.
Short-term memory
Activated memory that holds a few items briefly, such as the seven digits of a phone number while dialing, before the information is stored or forgotten.
Long-term memory
The relatively permanent and limitless storehouse of the memory system. Includes knowledge, skills, and experiences.
Working memory
A newer understanding of short-term memory that focuses on conscious, active processing of incoming auditory and visual-spatial information, and of information retrieved from long-term memory.
Explicit memory
Memory of facts and experiences that one can consciously know and “declare.” (Also called declarative memory.)
Effortful processing
Encoding that requires attention and conscious effort.
Automatic processing
Unconscious encoding of incidental information, such as space, time, and frequency, and of well-learned information, such as word meanings.
Implicit memory
Retention independent of conscious recollection. (Also called nondeclarative memory.)
Iconic memory
A momentary sensory memory of visual stimuli; a photographic or picture- image memory lasting no more than a few tenths of a second.
Echoic memory
A momentary sensory memory of auditory stimuli; if attention is elsewhere, sounds and words can still be recalled within 3 or 4 seconds.
Chunking
Organizing items into familiar, manageable units; often occurs automatically.
Mnemonics
Memory aids, especially those techniques that use vivid imagery and organizational devices.
Spacing effect
The tendency for distributed study or practice to yield better long-term retention than is achieved through massed study or practice.
Testing effect
Enhanced memory after retrieving, rather than simply rereading, information. Also sometimes referred to as a retrieval practice effect or test-enhanced learning.
Shallow processing
Encoding on a basic level based on the structure or appearance of words.
Deep processing
Encoding semantically, based on the meaning of the words; tends to yield the best retention.
Memory
The persistence of learning over time through the encoding, storage, and retrieval of information.
Hippocampus
A neural center located in the Limbic system; helps process explicit memories for storage.
Flashbulb memory
A clear memory of an emotionally significant moment or event.
Long-term potentiation (LTP)
An increase in a cell’s firing potential after brief, rapid stimulation. Believed to be a neural basis for learning and memory.
Recall
A measure of memory in which the person must retrieve information learned earlier, as on a fill-in-the-blank test.
Recognition
A measure of memory in which the person need only identify items previously learned, as on a multiple-choice test.
