models for explaining human memory Flashcards
Model 1 - Multi-store model of memory (Atkinson-Shiffrin)
the memory model that visualises memory as a system consisting of multiple memory stores through which a stream of data flows for processing
Sensory memory
the first stage of the multi-store model of memory; it receives and stores an unlimited amount of sensory information for up to a few seconds - iconic, echoic
Iconic memory
the subsystem of sensory memory that receives and stores an unlimited amount of auditory information in the form of a visual image for approximately 1/3 to 1/2 of a second
Echoic
the subsystem of sensory memory that receives and stores an unlimited amount of auditory information in the form of an echo for up to 3-4 seconds
Short term memory (STM)
the second and most effective memory in the multi-store model of memory; stores a limited amount of information entering from sensory memory or retrieved from LTM for a short period of time unless the information is rehearsed
Long term memory (LTM)
the third memory system in the multi-store model of memory; used for relatively permanent storage of an unlimited amount of information
magic number
- 7 (+ or - 2)
- the number of single items of information that the average short term memory can hold at any one time
chunking
- Atkinson and Shiffrin
- grouping separate items of information at any given time
maintenance rehearsal
- Atkinson and Shiffrin
- rehearsal technique involving the repletion of information a number of times (usually meaningless, note fashion)
- can be held in the short term memory for longer than the usual 18-20 seconds
- repetion may not necessarily be “vocab” it may be done sub-vocally or through the use of images
advantages of maintenance rehearsal
- allows info to be stored in STM for longer than the usual 18-20 seconds
- good for remembering meaningless information
limitations of maintenance rehearsal
- easily interrupted by information entering STM from sensory memory of LTM
- does not add to understanding
- restricts entry of new information into STM
- limited effectiveness in transferring information from STM to LTM
elaborative rehearsal
- Atkinson and Shiffrin
- rehearsal technique involving in linking new information in some meaningful way with other pieces of new information
- to hold it in STM for longer than the usual 18-20 seconds
- may involve the analysis of semantic, sensory or physical attributes of the item to be remembered which is then associated with items that are already stored in the LTM ir with other new info to aid anchoring or using the ‘learning tips’ given
advantages of elaborative rehearsal
- increases understanding because it requires deep processing
- adds more detail, which increases retrieval chances
- increases the possibility of long term retention because it organises new information according to meaning
- makes information more accessible because it creates ore potential retrieval cues
limitations of elaborative rehearsal
- takes longer than maintenance rehearsal
- is difficult to practice in situations where information entering STM is rapidly changing
- relies on the ability to retrieve information previously stored in LTM
- requires more conscious effort than maintenance rehearsal
serial position effect
- a pattern of recall for list items, where recall is better for items at the beginning or end of a list than for items in the middle
- Psychologists claim that it’s existence supports the theory that STM and LTM are indeed separate subsystems within the memory system