Working Memory Model Flashcards
What is the role of the central executive?
The CE plays a managerial role, dictating where incoming information will be processed by areas within the brain. This is the first place whereby sensory data will be dealt with, after being diverted to the areas which’re designed to process specific types of information. The CE is the largest, most superior part of the model; the other areas are known as “slave-sub-systems” due to their physical structure and less crucial role within the functioning of the model.
What is the role of the visiospatial sketchpad?
The visiospatial sketchpad interprets sensory information about our physical environment and creates a mental picture which allows us to perceive the world around us. Our proprioception efficacy is largely dictated by the effectiveness of the sketchpad which allows for the interpretation of the physical world
What is the role of the articulatory control centre?
The ACC is responsible for the interpretation of audio and speech production; this allows us to communicate with other people and listen to stimuli within our environment. The recent information is circulated in a loop which allows us to recall things like telephone numbers through short-term recital.
What is a criticism of the model? (Brain damage)
The model fails to account for our ability to regrow areas of the brain which have been physically damaged. Neuroplasticity allows for the human brain to learn new behaviours and create patterns and sequences to perform various tasks. The WMM doesn’t explain how these various parts may cease to function or, seemingly manage to function effectively following damage or diseases which inhibit memory recollection.
What is a criticism of the model? (Reliance)
The CE plays such a fundamental role within the model that damage to this area would seemingly result in a complete collapse of the brain and its ability to create new memories. Perhaps the importance of this component is overstated and shouldn’t be emphasised as much as the model states. Furthermore, the location of the CE isn’t outlined, meaning any treatment options are limited due to their inability to physically locate the most fundamental part of memory creation and task performance.
What is a strength of the model?
The WMM is highly detailed, providing a scientific explanation for how memories are created and the processes which occur during our performance of various tasks. Such empirical rigour bolsters the validity of the model and improves the efficacy of societal applications which are made from the conclusions surrounding memory.
