Reconstructive Memory Flashcards
(6 cards)
Reconstructive memory
Bartlett 1932
The idea that we alter information we have stored when we recall it, based on prior expectations/ knowledge
Schema
The cognitive framework that allows a person to interpret a new situation based on their experience in similar, prior experiences
Components of Reconstructive Memory
- Perception
We all see the same but perceive differently. This idea states that new memories are based on past experiences. For example, Bartlett’s study (Imagery recall tests) showed that participants made the ink blot that they were shown fit with previous experiences by giving them labels or a name which often shaped the following image that was drawn
Components of Reconstructive Memory
- Imaging
Largely influenced by the individuals own interests and experiences. An example of this is Bartlett’s ink blot tests as participants used ‘effort after meaning’ to describe how they attempted to connect a stimulus to experience meaning that they connected something that they were familiar with to the shape in order to recall it easier. As a stimulus gains meaning for the individual, it can be more readily assimilated and stored.
Components of Reconstructive memory
When trying to remember something we tend to change words to suit already familiar words, or ignore non-sense parts. Alike Bartlett showed in his study where participants were required to recall a culturally unfamiliar story. Participants showed exactly this, as stories were shortened as the time for recall was extended (as this was a repeated reproduction study). For example ‘canoe’ was changed to ‘boat’ and ‘hunting seals’ was changed to ‘fishing’.
Components of Reconstructive Memory
- Schema
Schemas are parcels of information or a mental representation of information about a specific even or object. For example we will have a schema for going to a restaurant that includes being waited on, ordering a meal, eating your food, paying then leaving. But we do not remember everything we perceive. Therefore when we recall the information we use this schema to then fill in the gaps of what we fail to perceive.
