Chapter 3 - Short term memory Flashcards
Digit span
Maximum number of sequentially presented digits that can reliably be recalled in the correct order.
Working memory span
Term applied to a range of complex memory span tasks in which simultaneous storage and processing is required.
Chunking
The process of combining a number of items into a single chunk typically on the basis of long-term memory.
Phonological loop
Term applied by Baddeley and Hitch to the component of their model responsible for the temporary storage of speech-like information.
Articulatory suppression
A technique for disrupting verbal rehearsal by requiring participants to continuously repeat a spoken item.
Word length effect
A tendency for verbal memory span to decrease when longer words are used.
Irrelevant sound effect
A tendency for verbal STM to be disrupted by concurrent fluctuating sounds, including both speech and music.
Free recall
A method whereby participants are presented with a sequence of items which they are subsequently required to recall in any order they wish.
Recency effect
A tendency for the last few items in a list to be well recalled.
Primacy effect
A tendency for the first few items in a sequence to be better recalled than most of the following items.
Long-term recency
A tendency for the last few items to be well recalled under conditions of long-term memory.
Corsi block tapping
Visuo-spatial counterpart to digit span involving an array of blocks that the tester taps in a sequence and the patient attempts to copy.
Visuo-spatial STM
Retention of visual and/or spatial information over brief periods of time.
Phonological similarity effect
A tendency for immediate serial recall of verbal material to be reduced, when the items are similar in sound.
