Atkinson's and Shriffin Multi Store Model of Memory (1968)

Question 1

Background of the study?

Answer 1

• Richard Atkinson and Shriffin propose that our memory stores differ based on their duration, their capacity and how information is encoded/retrieved.

Question 2

Role of Attention in memory?

Answer 2

• We register the information briefly, but we do not pay attention to all of it.
• When we do pay attention to the sensory information, it goes into the STM.

Question 3

Iconic memory

Answer 3

sensory register for visual information

Question 4

Echoic memory

Answer 4

sensory register for auditory information

Question 5

Gustatory Memory

Answer 5

sensory register for taste

Question 6

Olfactory

Answer 6

sensory register for smell

Question 7

Tactile

Answer 7

sensory register for touch

Question 8

Duration and capacity of STM

Answer 8

• When information goes into the STM, it is stored for about 15-30 seconds
• If we rehearse the information, it can be stored in the STM for longer
• STM is modality free (Stores different type on info from different senses)

Question 9

Role of Rehearsal in Memory?

Answer 9

Multi store model of memory suggests that if the info is rehearsed over and over again, it stays in the STM for longer, if info is rehearsed for longer, it is transferred to LTM

Question 10

Advantages

Answer 10

• There is evidence that supports the theory of two separate memory stores. In some cases of amnesia, the LTM gets damaged while the STM stays intact.

Question 11

Disadvantages

Answer 11

• Overstates the role of rehearsal in terms of transferring information in the LTM. We do not need to rehearse every piece of information to remember it sometimes, we remember things because they are meaningful.
• Is unlikely that we have two types of LTM store. In amnesia patients, some LTM stores are damaged but others are intact.