Memory

the process by which we take something we have observed and convert it onto a form we can store, retrieve and use

encoding

the processing of information into the memory system—for example, by extracting meaning.

sensory memory

large capacity 25+ Duration 1/4-2 seconds Info is transferred to short term memory (STM) one sensory register for every sensory system encoding format - image, sound, etc.

short term memory

capacity - small 20-30 seconds duration - if rehearsed can be maintained longer than that encoding format - visual, auditory or semantic

long-term memory

capacity - theoretically limitless duration - over a lifetime extracting info from LTM is called retrieval

What is the structure of LTM

Types of knowledge a) procedural memory b) declarative memory i) general knowledge ii) specific events Ways knowledge is expressed a) implicit memory b) Explicit memory i) recall ii) recognition

procedural memory

Memory of how to do things - skills, habits

declarative memory

memory of facts and events where they can be stated or declared

general/semantic

general knowledge

episodic

specific events

implicit memory

memory expressed in behaviour - does not require conscious recollection

Explicit memory

memory expressed through conscious recollection

Recall

spontaneous recollection of information

Recognition

identification of something previously learnt or seen

What are the levels of processing

shallow deep

types of shallow processing

structural processing - when we encode only the physical qualities of something Phonemic - when we encode how something SOUNDS

Types of deep processing

semantic - encode the word and relate it to another with a similar meaning elaboration rehearsal - involves more meaningful analysis (images, thinking, associations, etc.) to info and leads to better recall

How do you enrich encoding

elaboration - link stimulus to other info at time of encoding visual imagery - create visual images to represent info self referent encoding - connection info to personal memory

Encoding specificity

The ease of retrieval depends on how the info was encoded.

How does context affect encoding

context dependent memory mood (congruent) memory

What are the 7 'sins' of memory

transience absentmindedness misattribution suggestibility bias persistence forgetting

Name 3 theories of forgetting

decay theory interference theory motivated forgetting

Explain decay theory

memory is a fading neural trace that is weakened with disuse

Explain interference theory

conflict between old and new knowledge Proactive - Old messes with new Retroactive - New messes with old

Explain motivated forgetting

implies that forgetting can avoid painful memory. Defense technique