Multi-store Memory Model

Question 1

Evaluate the MSMM

Answer 1

Strengths:
. Large base of research, supports idea of distinct STM and LTM systems
. Makes sense that memories in the LTM are encoded semantically
. Influenced other models e.g, the WMM

Weaknesses:
. Research into STM low ecological validity, stimulus pts has to remember didn’t resemble real life (Peterson X’s trigram)
. Over simplified - LTM too simple
. Only assumed that LTM has unlimited capacity

Question 2

Peterson and Peterson experiment - DURATION of STM

Answer 2

• pts recall trigrams of random numbers / letters
• pts had to count backwards, in 3s or 4s

Results:
- after 3 seconds 80% recalled correctly
- after 18 seconds 10%

Longer they longer they counted backwards, less likely to recall trigrams

Question 3

Bahrick experiment - DURATION of LTM

Answer 3

• tested the ability to recall names and faces of ex-classmates
  Concluded that some memories were permanent but some were lost due to aging
• accuracy of long term memory decreased from 90% after 14 yrs to 60% after 47 yrs

Evaluate:
- hard to control variables
- high ecological validity (used real life memories)
- not generalisable (all Americans)

Question 4

Millers experiment - CAPACITY of STM

Answer 4

Study to support his idea that STM can hold 7 +- 2 bits of info

• pts see 1 stimulus and must put it into a category in their mind (chunking)

Findings:
- encoding can extend the capacity of STM