UNIT #5 : Essential Questions & Vocabulary Flashcards
Memory
The persistence of learning over time through the encoding, storage, and retrieval of information.
Encoding
The processing of 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
The processing of many aspects of
a problem simultaneously; the brain’s natural mode of information processing for many functions. Contrasts with the step-by-step (serial) processing of most computers and of conscious problem solving.
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 the seven digits of a phone number while dialing, 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 focuses on conscious, active processing of incoming auditory and visual-spatial information, and of information retrieved from long-term memory.
Explicit memory
Memory of facts and experiences that one 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 independent of conscious recollection. (Also called non-declarative memory.)
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.
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