Topic 6 - learning and memory

Question 1

what is learning

Answer 1

ability to acquire new knowledge or skills through instruction or experience

Question 2

what is the difference between associative and non-associative learning

Answer 2

associative learning - connection between two stimuli (pavlov’s dogs)

non associative learning - changes from repeated exposures to a stimulus

Question 3

what are the two types of non associative learning

Answer 3

habituation
- repeated exposure to a general stimulus leads to a gradually decreased behavioural response (desensitisation)

sensitisation
- repeated exposure leads to a gradual increased behavioural response

Question 4

what is memory

Answer 4

process by which learnt knowledge is able to be retained and recalled over time (use knowledge and apply in future events)

Question 5

what is declarative memory

Answer 5

facts, figures, events (quizzes are this) - typically stored in regions of the cerebral cortex

Question 6

what is procedural (non declarative) memory

Answer 6

motor skills, procedures - typically stored in the basal nuclei, cerebellum, and pre motor area

Question 7

what is short term memory

Answer 7

lasts for only seconds-minutes
requires constant attention to be maintained
most can hold 5-9 items
can be converted into long term memory (takes 5+ exposures)

Question 8

why was the SCAT memory test changed

Answer 8

5 words was too easy
switched to 10 to make it harder as well as delayed recall

Question 9

what are the three different ways info in short term memory is processed

Answer 9

1. repeated to keep in short term memory
2. info is transferred to long term memory via memory consolidation
3. info is lost

Question 10

what is long term memory

Answer 10

• lasts for days-years
• declarative memories are typically processed through the hippocampus
• memories are sorted and directed to the appropriate areas of the brain for storage through the process of plasticity