Lesson 9 - Forgetting: Retrieval Failure Theory Flashcards
1
Q
What is Retrieval Failure?
A
- Argues that forgetting occurs in the absence of appropriate cues.
- When info is placed in memory, associated data is stored at the same time, so if cues are unavailable, it appears as if you’ve forgotten the information but you just cannot access it at that time.
- Some cues are linked meaningfully
- Other cues are coded at the same time of learning but not meaningfully
2
Q
What is Context-Dependent Forgetting?
A
- The environment in which the material was learnt can act as a cue
- Recall will be better if in that environment
- If you are not in the same context at retrieval as you were at coding, you can forget
3
Q
What is State-Dependent Forgetting?
A
- Physical State affects recall
- Recall is facilitated if people have a similar physiological state at recall as well as coding
- If not, you might fail to access the information
4
Q
Evaluation of Retrieval Failure Theory (+)
A
- Abernathy (1940) tested participants recall using a mixture of familiar and unfamiliar instructors and teaching rooms. Participants tested by a familiar instructor in a familiar room recalled better because of cues (context-dependent cue)
- Godden + Baddeley (1975) got divers to learn and recall word lists on either dry land or underwater. Results hosted that words learnt and recall same context were remembered better due to cues. (Context-dependent cues)
- Darnley et al (1973) found participants who hid money in a large warehouse under the influence of cannabis were more likely to recall the hiding spot when in a drugged state.
- Retrieval Failure Theory has practical applications. Students should learn/revise in the room where they will take exams.
5
Q
Evaluation of Retrieval Failure Theory (-)
A
- Baddeley (1997) argues that the influence of cues is not that strong. IRL we recall something in a different context from where we learnt it e.g GCSE students do not take exams in classrooms
