Chapter 5 - Memory Flashcards
Memory
encoding, storage and retrieval of information acquired through learning. Is a physiological representation of some prior event or experience
Encoding
Conversion of information into a usable form so that it can be physiologically represented and stored in memory
Storage
retention of the encoded information over time
Retrieval
recovery of stored information for use when needed
Memory Stores
1: sensory memory
2: short-term memory (STM)
3: long-term memory (LTM)
Sensory Memory
The entry point for all incoming sensory information from the external environment. Acts like a filter. Stored in raw form. (Capacity: unlimited, duration: 0.2-4 seconds)
Iconic Memory
stores exact replica of visual information (0.2-0.4 seconds)
Echoic memory
stores exact replica of auditory information (3-4 seconds)
Short-term memory (STM) (working memory)
consciously aware of, and can manipulate information. Interacts with both sensory memory and LTM. (capacity: 7 plus or minus 2 items - 5-9 items, duration: 12-30 seconds)
Displacement
due to STMs limited capacity, displacement can occur: new information can ‘push out’ old information
Chunking
STMs limited capacity can be increased by chunking: combining the individual elements into a single, meaningful unit
Decay
due to STMs limited duration, decay can occur: fading of information
Rehearsal
Duration of STM can be increased via rehearsal: consciously manipulating information to aid storage and retrieval
Maintenance rehearsal
mindless repetition of info to keep info in STM
Elaborative Rehearsal
adding meaning to information so it is further encoded and transferred into LTM (e.g. mnemonic, song, apply content to real life)
Long Term Memory (LTM)
stores information that has been processed through sensory memory and short-term memory. Info in LTM is encoded semantically. (capacity: unlimited, duration: permanent)
Strengths of the multi store model of memory
- model identifies that there are different memory stores involved in memory
- explains how information is transferred from sensory memory, to STM to LTM
Limitations of the multi-store model of memory
- does not explain the different forms of LTM
- does not explain the neural basis of different memory stores and processes
- oversimplifies memory, memory is more complex than model suggests
