Unit 7 (cognition) Flashcards
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
recognition
a measure of memory in which the person need only identify items previously learned, as on a multiple-choice test (external cues)
concept
a mental grouping of similar objects, events, ideas, or people
Heuristic
a simple thinking strategy that often allows us to make judgments and solve problems efficiently; usually speedier but also more error-prone than algorithms. (short cut)
availability heuristic
estimating the likelihood of events based on their availability in memory; if instances come readily to mind (perhaps because of their vividness), we presume such events are common
memory
the persistence of learning over time through the storage and retrieval of information
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, including vision. Contrasts with the step-by-step (serial) processing of most computers and of conscious problem solving. (Ability to deal with multiple stimuli simultaneously)
sensory memory
the immediate, very brief recording of sensory information in the memory system (raven)
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.
explicit memory
memory of facts and experiences that one can consciously know and “declare”
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
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 known as retrieval practice effect of test-enhanced learning)
shallow processing
1st level of encoding; based on the structure or appearance of stimulus
deep processing
2nd level of encoding; based on the meaning of the words; tends to yield the best retention
Hippocampus
A neural center located in the limbic system that helps process explicit memories for storage.
flashbulb memory
a clear memory of an emotionally significant moment or event
long-term potentiation
an increase in a synapse’s firing potential after brief, rapid stimulation. Believed to be a neural basis for learning and memory.
