Intro into Memory

Question 1

Memory

Answer 1

any indication that learning has persisted over time. It is our ability to store and retrieve information.

Question 2

flashbulb memory

Answer 2

A unique and highly emotional moment can give rise to clear, strong, and persistent memory called flashbulb memory. This memory is not free from errors.

Question 3

Stages of memory

Answer 3

encoding → storage → retrieval

Question 4

Atkinson-Schiffrin (1968) three-stage model of memory

Answer 4

a) sensory memory
b) short-term memory and
c) long-term memory.

Question 5

Sensory Memory

Answer 5

memory from your 5 senses

• lasts only an instant (a second or two)
• Use our senses to take in this info.
• Allows us to take in all info and decide if it is important enough for us to pay attention
• If info is not passed on, it is lost (decay, displacement)
  Think of sensory memory like a snapshot…but a snapshot that is constantly replaced with new snapshots, unless it is paid attention to and transferred to ST memory

Question 6

Short-term Memory

Answer 6

• a short period of time, usually less than 30 seconds
• Has a limited capacity of 7 (+/-) 2 items
  Info will leave ST memory if not rehearsed
  (repetition of info)
  ■ Think about when you ask someone for their
  number but don’t have your phone…you have to
  keep repeating it, until you dial the phone – but if
  not keep repeating it, you’ll forget it
  ■ rehearsal will keep info in ST memory and is
  necessary for info to be transferred to LT memory

Question 7

Long-term Memory

Answer 7

Memory that stores information on a relatively permanent basis
* Appears to have a limitless capacity
* Info in LT memory is filed and coded so we can retrieve it when
needed

Question 8

Atkinson-Schiffrin (1968) three-stage model of memory
Problems with this model…

Answer 8

1. Some information skips the first two stages and
   enters long-term memory automatically.
2. Since we cannot focus on all the sensory information in the environment, we select information (through attention) that is important to us. This process is known as selective attention.
3. The nature of short-term memory is more complex.

Question 9

Working Memory

Answer 9

ability to remember something while working on something else

the small amount of information that can be held in mind and used in the execution of cognitive tasks - ex = taking notes in class, following multi-step directions