Multi store model Flashcards
MMM
memory is a basic process used to encode, store & retrieve info. There exist many models in psych to describe human memory. One of them is the MMM
MMM states
- memory consists of 3 seperate components: sensory mem store, ST mem store & LT mem store
- info flows from sensory mem to LTM if certain conditions are met: attention & rote rehearsal
each of the 3 components of mem is characterised by:
- duration (how long info can be kept in this sore)
- capacity (how much info can be stored)
- conditions necessary for info to move from this store to the next one
Mem process
info travels from sensory memory to STM to LTM. Rehearsal (mental repetition of a stimulus) is the main means of transferring info into LTM, where it can be stored indefinitely. However, not all info stored in LTM is easily retrievable.
Strengths of MMM
- concept widely supported by research
- first real model of memory, taking a new approach to understanding human information processing
- possible to make predictions based on the MSM and to design experiments based on MSM
- used as a basis for more detailed models
Weaknesses of MMM
- overly simplistic, does not account for different types of LTM like episodic, semantic, and procedural
- idea of a single LTM shown to be incorrect by empirical evidence
- does not explain distortions in memory or how some memories (e.g. highly emotional) can be encoded with minimal rehearsal
sensory memory
shortest memory store - takes in sensory information and transfers it to STM. Iconic memory (visual), echoic memory (auditory)
STM
Limited capacity and lasts around 12 seconds. Information is transferred from STM to LTM
LTM
- memories stored here after rehearsal, can be recalled
- long term memory has infinite capacity and duration
- lost due to interference (memories integrate and become indistiguishable) decay (lost over time) and retrieval failure (retrieval is dependent on a cue which is missing)