Lecture 7 - Retrieval

Question 1

What is Retrieval?

Answer 1

• Converting information back from LTM to WM
• Recalling, Remembering
• Reconstructing original information using memories and filling in gaps with general knowledge

Question 2

What are the 3 Types of Recall?

Answer 2

• Recognition - identifying info you’ve seen before (e.g. multiple choice test)
• Prompted Recall - recalling with some memory cues provided (e.g. short answer test)
• Free Recall - recall with no memory cues provided (e.g. essay question)

Question 3

Out of the 3 Types of Recall, rate them in difficulty?

Answer 3

1. Recognition = easiest
2. Prompted Recall = middle
3. Free Recall = hardest

Question 4

What is Encoding Specificity?

Answer 4

The idea that matching the conditions/contextual cues from encoding when trying to recall that info improves results.

e.g. location, time of day, mood, task type

Question 5

How can we help students to overcome Encoding Specificity?

Answer 5

Practice under a variety of conditions to increase flexibility when activating schemata.

Question 6

Why does Forgetting occur?

Answer 6

• Encoding Failure - info never reaches LTM
• Discarded Info - not all info is needed later
• Retrieval failure - on the tip of your tongue! Memory is too weak for retrieval tasks
• Reconstructive Memory - general knowledge fills in gaps and causes errors

Question 7

Why are we able to re-learn old info faster than new info?

Answer 7

• Because the info is already in our LTM, but is just inaccessible

Question 8

What are some educational implications of Encoding and Retrieval?

Answer 8

• Activate the right schemas before the lesson starts
• Encourage deeper processing
• Encourage students to use study time wisely
• Remember that memory is constructive and fallible