Chapter 4 - Working Memory Flashcards
How many pieces of information can we hold in working memory?
Seven chunks
Chunk: memory unit consisting of several components strongly associated with one another
Cowan argued for four pure pieces
Brown/Peterson and Peterson
Study 3 unrelated letters
Count backwards by threes
Recall original letters
Serial-position effect
U- shaped relationship between a word’s position on list and probability of recall
Strong recency effect
Strong primacy effect
Why is primacy effect strong?
- Don’t compete with earlier items
2. More rehearsal
How do semantics affect short term memory?
Proactive interference - three previously learned items will interfere with fourth unless category changes
Called release from proactive interference
Works for semantic categories, ie. numbers and words, fruits and occupations
What is the Atkinson-Shiffrin model of memory?
Information stored in sensory memory for 2 seconds
Most forgotten
Some passes to short-term working memory
Can be lost in 30 unless repeated
Control processes
Rehearsals to keep memory
Drawbacks of Atkinson-Shiffrin?
Sensory memory now part of perceptual storage
How is working memory different from basic short term memory?
Using information recalled for a variety of tasks
How is phonological loop employed in cognitive processes?
Processes a limited no of sounds for a short time
All reading passes through loop before into long term memory
Use during self-instruction to remind
Learning new words in first language
Use in language production and learning new language
Math calculations - keeping track of numbers
Activates frontal and temporal lobes in left hemisphere
How did transcranial magnetic stimulation show affect on speech if used on left frontal and parietal lobes?
Short, simple sentences not affected
Left parietal lobe resp for long simple sentences
Parietal and left frontal resp for complex sentences and storing
What are two systems of memory?
Visuospatial sketchpad
Central executive
What do ADHD do poorly?
Lower performance on visual and verbal working memory tasks
Deficits in central executive components of working memory system
