Difficult Questions Midterm 2

Question 1

Describe the deficient processing view. Highlight points that you missed in earlier explanations of the concept. (3)

Answer 1

-massed repetition leads to shallow encoding due to a lack of consolidation opportunities, while distributed repetition supports deeper, more stable encoding.
-during massed repetition, people may pay less attention to the material because it feels overly familiar. This lack of renewed attention each time makes encoding less effective.
-In distributed repetition, the time gaps introduce variability in encoding contexts (e.g., mood, surroundings). This can create richer, more varied memory traces

Question 2

Describe the encoding variability view.

Answer 2

-spaced repetition leads to stronger memories because each review occurs in a different context, creating unique memory traces. These varied traces make it easier to retrieve the information later, as multiple distinct cues support recall. Massed repetition, by contrast, lacks this contextual variety, leading to weaker, less distinctive memory traces that are harder to retrieve.