Explanations for forgetting: Interference

Question 1

Define interference

Answer 1

(when two pieces of information are in conflict )

forgetting in LTM bc we can’t get the memories even though they are available

Question 2

What is proactive and eg

Answer 2

old interferes with new

a teacher learns many names in the past and can’t remember names of her current class

Question 3

what is retroactive and eg

Answer 3

new interferes with old

eg a teacher learns many new names this year and can’t remember the names of her current students

Question 4

when is interference worse and why

Answer 4

similar
PI previously stored info makes new info difficult to store
RI new info overwrites previous similar memories

Question 5

Name the procedure and aims of McGeoch and McDonals 1931

Answer 5

• ppt asked to learn a list of words to 100% accuracy
  -given a new list to learn which varied in the degree to which it was similar to the old
  G1 : synonyms
  G2: Antonyms
  G3: Unrelated
  G4: consonant syllables
  G5: 3 digit numbers
  G6: no new list (control conditions)

Question 6

Findings and conclusions

Answer 6

• performance depended on the nature of second list
• synonyms produced worst recall
• mean number of items recalled increased when ppts were given very different materials
• interference is strongest when the memories are similar

Question 7

Name 2 strengths

Answer 7

• evidence from lab studies consistently demonstrates interference in memory
• real life studies have supported the interference explanation

Question 8

Name 2 limitations

Answer 8

• research use of artificial materials

- time allowed between learning from research