Chapter 9 - Vocabulary Flashcards
Flashbulb Memory
A clear memory of an emotionally significant moment or event.
Memory
The persistence of learning over time through the storage and retrieval of information.
Encoding
The processing of information into the memory system - for example, by extracting meaning.
Storage
The retention of encoded information over time.
Retrieval
The process of getting information out of memory storage.
Sensory Memory
The immediate, very brief recording of sensory information in the memory system.
Short Term Memory
Activated memory that holds a few items briefly, such as the seven digits of a phone number while dialing, before the information is stored or forgotten.
Long Term Memory
The relatively permanent and limitless storehouse of the memory system. Includes knowledge, skills, and experiences.
Working Memory
A newer understanding of short-term memory that involves conscious, active processing of incoming auditory and visual-spatial information, and of information retrieved from long-term memory.
Automatic Processing
Unconscious encoding of incidental information, such as time, space, and frequency, and of well-learned information, such as word meanings.
Effortful Processing
Encoding that requires attention and conscious effort.
Rehearsal
The conscious repetition of information, either to maintain it in consciousness or to encode it in storage.
Spacing Effect
The tendency for distributed study or practice to yield better long term retention than is achieved through massed study or practice.
Serial Position Effect
Our tendency to recall best the last and first items in a list.
Visual Encoding
The encoding of picture images.
Acoustic Encoding
The encoding of sound, especially the sound of words.
Semantic Encoding
The encoding of meaning, including the meaning of words.
Imagery
Mental pictures; a powerful aid to effortful processing, especially when combined with semantic encoding.
Mnemonics
Memory aids, especially those techniques that use vivid imagery and organizational devices.
Chunking
Organizing items into familiar, manageable units; often occurs automatically.
Iconic Memory
A momentary sensory memory of visual stimuli; a photographic or picture memory lasting no more than a few tenths of a second.
Echoic Memory
A momentary sensory memory of auditory stimuli; if attention is elsewhere, sounds and words can still be recalled within 3 or 4 seconds.
Amnesia
The loss of memory.
Implicit Memory
Retention independent of conscious recollection. (Procedural Memory)
