Memory - The Working Memory Model Flashcards
What is the Working Memory Model (WMM)?
The Working Memory Model (WMM) is a representation of short-term memory (STM). It suggests that STM is a dynamic processor of different types of information using sub-units coordinated by a central decision-making system.
What is the role of the central executive?
The central executive is the component of the WMM that co-ordinates the activities of the three subsystems in memory. It also allocates processing resources to those activities.
What is the phonological loop (PL)?
The phonological loop (PL) is the component of the WMM that processes information in terms of sound. This includes both written and spoken material. It is subdivided into:
The phonological store, which stores the words you hear.
The articulatory process, which allows maintenance rehearsal.
The capacity is believed to be two seconds worth of what you can say.
What is the visuo-spatial sketchpad (VSS)?
The visuo-spatial sketchpad (VSS) is the component of the WMM that processes visual and spatial information in a mental space often called our ‘inner eye.’
Limited capacity of around 3 to 4 objects.
Logie subdivided the VSS into:
Visual Cache - stores visual data.
Inner Scribe - records the arrangement of objects in the visual field.
What is the episodic buffer (EB)?
The episodic buffer (EB) is the component of the WMM that brings together material from the other subsystems into a single memory rather than separate strands. It also provides a bridge between working memory and long-term memory.
What is one evaluation point for the Working Memory Model?
Clinical evidence supports the WMM. Shallice and Warrington’s (1970) case study of patient KF showed that his STM for auditory information was poor but his visual information was intact. This suggests separate stores for visual and auditory memory. However, evidence from brain-damaged patients may not be reliable due to unique cases and trauma.
What is another evaluation point for the WMM?
Dual-task performance provides strong support for the WMM. Baddeley et al. (1975) found participants had more difficulty doing two visual tasks (e.g., tracking a light and describing the letter F) simultaneously than doing a verbal and visual task. This suggests separate slave systems for processing visual and verbal information.
What is a criticism of the central executive?
The central executive is the least understood component of the WMM. Cognitive psychologists argue that it is unsatisfactory and does not explain enough. Baddeley (2003) acknowledged this limitation, stating it is simply ‘attention.’ This reduces the model’s clarity and usefulness.
What is a final evaluation point for the WMM?
The WMM has real-life applications. For example, understanding the phonological loop has practical value in helping children with learning difficulties like dyslexia, where working memory may be impaired. This enhances the model’s real-world relevance.
