Acquisition and Working Memory Flashcards
Modal Model of Memory
Memory involves a number of discrete systems that receive information from the sensory memory (echoic and visual). Information is moved into STM and retained via rehearsal then moved into LTM which stores all an individual’s memory.
Support: serial position effect and neuroimaging data of different brain areas being used in this process.
Limitations: STM is passive. Evidence supports a dynamic capacity.
Working Memory Model
Almost all mental activities require WM. WM consists of episodic buffer, phonological loop, visuospatial sketchpad and central executive.
Support: neurological evidence (different brain sites related to different task types), wide range of research that suggests the dynamic function of WM (operation spans etc).
Serial Position Effect
The position of a word or object in a list influences how well it will be remembered.
Chunking
Combining units into meaningful chunks to maximise the capacity of WM.
Central Executive
Controls the sequence and launch of actions, plans and sets goals, breaks automatic responses and directs attention.
Phonological Loop
Deals with auditory information (phonological store) and production of speech (articulatory process).
Visuospatial Sketchpad
Temporary storage and manipulation of visual and spatial information. Visual cache - form and colour, inner scribe - spatial and movement.
Episodic Buffer
Holds discrete episodes and acts as a buffer between LTM and WM. Combines information from other areas.
Elaborate Encoding
Making connections between material and processing it at a deep level (meaning) makes retrieval of material easier.
Intentional Learning
Learning things while knowing memory will be tested later.
Incidental Learning
Learning that occurs with no intention to actually learn the material.
Shallow and Deep Processing
Shallow - focusing on appearance and superficial aspects of material
Deep - focusing on meaning and implications of information
