Memory Flashcards
Part of Cog psych
Memory
The ability to retain information or a representation of past experience, based on the mental processes of learning or encoding, retention across some interval of time, and retrieval or reactivation of the memory.
Mental processes involved in memory
Encoding [receiving input and transforming it into code to be stored]
Storage [placing code in memory]
Retrieval [gaining access to stored coded info when needed]
Atkinson & Shiffrin three-stage model of memory
Sensory input –> sensory register –> STM –> Rehearsal –> LTM
Sensory register
- Storage function of sensory channels
- Info is stored for short period of time before decaying
- Visual: 11-16 items for 1 second
- Auditory: 4-5 seconds
Short term memory
- Information is stored for 30 seconds
- Limited storage capacity (7 +/- 2)
STM experiment
- Subjects asked to recall 15 nouns presented to them for 1 second with 2 second gap between.
- 2 situations: Zero delay condition and delay condition (with mental counting in delay)
Chunking
The process by which the mind divides large pieces of information into smaller units (chunks) that are easier to retain in STM.
Retrieval of info in STM
Rapid scanning of all information in STM, that continues even after info is found, until all info is examined.
Rehearsal
Repetition of information in an attempt to maintain it longer in memory. More rehearsals, more likely to go to LTM.
Elaborative rehearsal more effective than maintenance rehearsal.
Spaced repetition, active recall.
Semantic memory
Memory for general facts and concepts, contains information with meaning that ultimately allows people to engage in complex cognitive processes such as recognizing objects and using language.
- Meanings of words, concepts, rules of language
Recall vs Recognition
- Independently reproducing information previously exposed to
- Realising certain stimulus is one that you have seen/heard before (what they test in MCQs)
Clustering
The tendency for items to be consistently grouped together in the course of recall, typically occurring for related items.
Types of long term memory
Procedural memory [remembering how things are done] [cerebellum]
Declarative memory [aka fact memory] [hippocampus]
Level of processing theory (Lockhart)
Information goes through different levels of analysis - deeper the analysis, better the memory
- Structural processing - shallow and related to the structural properties of the words
- Intermediate processing - related to phonological sounds of the word
- Meaning of input is given
Elaborative rehearsal
An encoding strategy to facilitate the formation of memory by integrating new information to already existing memories.
TOT phenomenon
Attempting to retrieve from memory a specific name or word but not being able to do so.
Usually retrieve words that 1. sound like target word 2. start with the same letter 3. have similar no. of syllables 4. holds the same meaning
Episodic memory
Ability to remember personally experienced events associated with a particular time and place.
Part of LTM.
No logical organization.
Have biological reference.
Role of organization in encoding LTM
- Info to be grouped in logical manner [inherent or individualistic]
- Words arranged in logical hierarchy recalled better
- Subjective organization
Subjective organization
The creation of one’s own idiosyncratic set of associations or groupings among items to be learned in order to facilitate memory.
Role of imagery in encoding LTM
- Images as partial or altered representations of world around
- Paired-associate technique experiment [concrete & abstract words]
- Having an item that evoked memory led to good recall
- Image creating words (concrete) became conceptual pegs on which response was hung
Role of constructive processes in encoding LTM
Process of modifying (simplifying, accentuating or changing) complex info to be encoded - it is different for literal copy of input.
- Remembering the gist of complex information
- Using inferences while encoding based on schemata
Schema
A collection of basic knowledge about a concept or entity that serves as a guide to perception, interpretation, imagination, or problem solving.
State-dependant memory
A condition in which memory for a past event is improved when the person is in the same biological or psychological state as when the memory was initially formed.
Retrieval cue
A prompt or stimulus used to guide memory recall. Direct memory search to appropriate part in long term memory.
Confabulation
The falsification of memory in which gaps in recall are filled by fabrications that the individual accepts as fact. Typically not considered to be a conscious attempt to deceive others. Occurs in eye-witness testimonies.