Chapter 7: LTM Encoding, Retrieval & Consolidation Flashcards
Encoding
initial process of transforming sensory information into a format that can be stored in memory; first step in creating new memories
Maintenance rehearsal
memory technique that involves repeating information to keep it in short-term memory; memorization by repetition
Elaborative rehearsal
memory technique where new information is actively connected to existing knowledge in LTM by creating meaningful associations; enhancing memorization for later
Level of processing
the depth at which information is mentally processed, suggesting that the deeper the level of analysis, the better the information is encoded and stored in memory
Depth of processing theory
the level at which information is processed significantly affects how well it is encoded and remembered; shallow/deeper processing
Shallow processing
processing information by focusing on the basic sensory features and characteristics of a stimulus, like its appearance or sound; poor memory
Deep processing
processing information by actively engaging with its meaning, making connections to existing knowledge, and elaborating on its details; good memory
Retrieval cues
stimuli or prompts that help trigger the recall of information from memory; hints or clues to access stored memories, allowing people to bring specific information back to conscious awareness
Craik & Tulving (1975)
demonstrated that information processed at a deeper level (meaning) is more likely to be remembered compared to shallow level (visual appearance)
5 Factors that Aid Encoding
- Linking words to yourself
- Forming visual images
- Paired Associate Leaning
- Generation effect
- Organizing information
Self-reference effect
the tendency for people to better remember information when it has been encoded in reference to the self
Bransford & Johnson (1972)
conducted an experiment to investigate how the depth of processing influences memory retention and how context plays a crucial role in comprehension and memory
Testing Effect
phenomenon where actively retrieving information through testing or quizzing on previously learned material leads to better long-term memory retention compared to simply re-reading or reviewing
Retrieval
process of accessing and recovering information (LTM to WM) that is stored in memory; ‘‘remembering’’
Cued-recall
type of memory retrieval where you are given a hint or cue to help you remember something; word, image that relates to the information your trying to remember
Context-Retrieval
Retrieval is most effective when the conditions at retrieval match the conditions at encoding
Encoding Specificity
retrieval is most effective when the context or cues present during information encoding are also present during retrieval; environment
State-Dependent Learning
retrieval is most effective when a person is in a similar state of mind (mood) to when they learned the information; mood
Transfer-Appropriate Processing
retrieval is most effective when the mental processes used to encode information closely match the processes used to retrieve it; process
Graded amnesia
a pattern of memory loss where recent memories are significantly more impaired than older memories
Consolidation
process by which newly formed information is gradually transformed into a stable and enduring memory; transitioning STM to LTM by strengthening neural connections in the brain
Synaptic Consolidation
process where newly formed memories are stabilized and strengthened by changes at the level of synapses (connections between neurons) shortly after learning occurs
Systems Consolidation
process where newly formed memories stored in the hippocampus, are transferred into the cortical regions, allowing them to be retrieved independently from the hippocampus and becoming more stable LTMs
Sleep and consolidation
sleep is thought to be essential for memory formation, and particularly for episodic memory
Reconsolidation
process of modifying a memory that has been reactivated; reactivating a memory, replacing it with a new version of the memory
Reconsolidation in animals
whenever memories are recalled, they become vulnerable to loss but reconsolidation could be a very useful skill for learning and navigating a world that is constantly changing
Reconsolidation in humans
people who have a diagnosis of PTSD often have issues with recalling details of memories, and pleasant experiences in particular
PTSD in Reconsolidation
Reconsolidation therapy is a treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that involves reactivating a traumatic memory and then reducing its emotional impact
