Memory Flashcards
Define encoding
the process by which we transform what we perceive, think or feel into an enduring memory
Define coding
The format in which information is stored in various forms
Define rehearsal
the process of keeping information in STM by mentally repeating it
Define chunking
Combining small pieces of information into larger clusters or chunks that are more easily held in short term memory
Define episodic memory
A long term memory store for personal events and their contexts
Define semantic memory
A long term store for knowledge about the world
Define procedural memory
A long term store for knowledge about how to do things
Define interference
The drop in accuracy and response time performance when 2 tasks tap into the same system
Define proactive interference
When older memories disrupt the recall of newer memories
Define retroactive interference
When newer memories disrupt the recall of older memories
Define the method of loci
A memory aid that associates information with mental images of locations
What is the duration of the sensory register?
0.25 to 2 seconds
What is the duration and capacity of short term memory
7 +-2 items
Lasts up to 30 seconds
How is short and long term memory encoded?
Short term memory- acoustic encoding
Long term memory semantic encoding
Visuospatial sketchpad
Briefly stores visual and spatial information
Phonological loop
Briefly encodes mental representations of sound and is made up of a short term store and an articulatory rehearsal system
Central executive
An attentional system that co ordinates and controls plans of action and output
Episodic buffer
A temporary storage space where information from long term memory can be integrated into working memory
Define working memory
Active maintenance and manipulation of information in short term storage
Verbal short term memory
Memory span is poorer for longer words
Pronunciation time rather than number of letters
What is the most effective way at slowing down forgetting?
Expanding spacing of learning (go over information before forgotten, gap then learn). This is most effective because most forgetting occurs very rapidly after initial forgetting with releasing before forgetting occurs
What is absent mindedness
Reduced memory due to failing to pay attention
What is transience
Reduced memory over time
What is blocking
Inability to remember needed info
What is suggestibility?
Altering a memory because of misleading information
What is bias?
Influence of current knowledge on our memory for past events
What is persistence?
The resurgence of unwanted/disturbing memories that we’d like to forget
Explain closed and open mode
Closed- conscious control of behaviour. Requires attention
Open mode- control of behaviour is automatic. Slips of action occur when the wrong mode of thinking is selected
HM
Sever anterograde amnesia following epilepsy
Surgery which aimed to remove area of brain thought to be at heart of epilepsy removed (hippocampus)
Surgery reduced epilepsy but drastically altered his memory
No longer able to form long term memory
KF
Brain damage following motor cycle accident
STM reduced to 3-4 words at a time but images still 7 +-2
What are flashbulb memories?
Vivid detailed memories
