Module 22: Studying and Encoding Memories Flashcards
Memory
The persistence of learning over time through the encoding, storage, and retrieval of information
Recall
A measure of memory in which the person must retrieve information learned earlier, as on a fill-in-the-
blank test.
Recognition
A measure of memory in which the person identifies items previously learned, as on a multiple-choice test.
Relearning
A measure of memory that assesses the amount of time saved when learning material again.
Encoding
The process of getting information into the memory system—for example, by extracting meaning.
Storage
The process of retaining encoded information over time.
Retrieval
The process of getting information out of memory storage.
Parallel Processing
Processing many aspects of a stimulus or problem at once.
Sensory Memory
The immediate, very brief recording of sensory information in the memory system.
Short Term Memory
Activated memory that holds a few items briefly, such as digits of a phone number while calling, before the
information is stored or forgotten.
Long Term Memory
The relatively permanent and limitless storehouse of the memory system. Includes knowledge, skills, and
experiences.
Working Memory
A newer understanding of short-term memory that adds conscious, active processing of incoming sensory
information, and of information retrieved from long-term memory.
Explicit Memory
Retention of facts and experiences that we can consciously know and “declare.” (Also called declarative
memory.)
Effortful Processing
Encoding that requires attention and conscious effort.
Automatic Processing
Unconscious encoding of incidental information, such as space, time, and frequency, and of well-learned
information, such as word meanings.
Implicit Memory
Retention of learned skills or classically conditioned associations independent of conscious recollection.
(Also called nondeclarative memory.)
Iconic Memory
A momentary sensory memory of visual stimuli; a photographic or picture-image memory lasting no more
than a few tenths of a second.
Echoic Memory
A momentary sensory memory of auditory stimuli; if attention is elsewhere, sounds and words can still be
recalled within 3 or 4 seconds.
Procedural Memory
A type of implicit memory that aids the performance of particular types of tasks without conscious awareness.
Chunking
Organizing items into familiar, manageable units; often occurs automatically.
Mnemonics
Memory aids, especially those techniques that use vivid imagery and organizational devices.
Spacing Effect
the tendency for distributed study or practice to yield better long-term retention than is achieved through
massed study or practice.
Testing Effect
enhanced memory after retrieving, rather than simply rereading, information. Also sometimes referred to
as a retrieval practice effect or test-enhanced learning.
Shallow Processing
encoding on a basic level, based on the structure or appearance of words.
Deep Processing
encoding semantically, based on the meaning of the words; tends to yield the best retention.
