Working Memory (Chapter 5)

Question 1

Problem with short term memory theory

Answer 1

People are able to store things and focus on something else without eliminating that memory

Question 2

Working memory model

Answer 2

Central executive overlaps both phonological loop and visuospatial sketchpad

Question 3

Phonological loop

Answer 3

Short-term storage of verbal and auditory information
Used in repetition of information in head
Function: phonological coding and manipulation of what is heard in environment

Question 4

Visuospatial sketchpad

Answer 4

Short-term storage of visual and spatial information

Used to store and manipulate images

Question 5

Phonological similarity effect

Answer 5

Easier to recall list of letters that sound phonologically different than list of letters that sound phonologically similar, even when given written list of letters

Question 6

Word length effect

Answer 6

Words that are shorter in length are better retained in working memory than those that are longer in length
Occurs because phonological loop fills up faster with more syllables

Question 7

Capacity of phonological loop

Answer 7

Approximately 2 seconds

Question 8

Articulatory suppression

Answer 8

Phonological loop has lessened capacity when speaking
The same loop is used for storage and rehearsal- it gets filled up with hearing oneself talk
Written information presented must be stored in visuospatial sketchpad, which isn’t as efficient at storing words
Word length effect is wiped out (syllables are irrelevant when word is coded visually)

Question 9

Storing and processing information visually or auditorily

Answer 9

When storing visual information, processing is faster verbally
When storing verbal information, processing is faster visually
Reason: spreading load across two systems

Question 10

When interference occurs

Answer 10

Trying to carry out 2 tasks within one component of working memory

Question 11

Central executive

Answer 11

Moving information to and from long term memory
Spreads cognitive load across phonological loop, visuospatial sketchpad, and long term memory
Directs attention across tasks

Question 12

Relationship between working memory and attention

Answer 12

Working memory is essentially attention

Question 13

Prefrontal cortex and working memory

Answer 13

Prefrontal cortex is essential for proper function of working memory
Damage to prefrontal cortex creates deficits in working memory