Chapter 7: Memory

PSYC 101

What is memory

The persistence of learning over time through encoding, storage, and retrieval

How many different models of memory are there?

Two

What is information-processing model?

Encode → store → retrieve (computer)

What is the three stage model?

Consists of sensory, short-term and long term memory

What is sensory memory?

Immediate, brief recording of sensory info

What is short term memory?

Temporary stage, limited capacity (~ 7 items)

What is long term memory?

Permanent. limitless storage

What is explicit (declarative) memory?

Requires conscious recall

What is semantic memory?

Facts and general knowledge

What is episodic memory?

Personal experiences

Where is semantic and episodic memory stored in?

The hippocampus and frontal lobes

What does implicit (non-declarative memory) require?

Unconscious recall

What is procedural memory?

skills

classically conditioned responses

Where is procedural memory stored in?

Stored in the cerebellum and basal ganglia

What is automatic processing?

Unconscious encoding (space, time, frequency)

What does effortful processing require?

It requires attention (studying or rehearsing)

What are ways to improve encoding?

Chunking (grouping information)

Mnemonics (memory aids using vivid imagery)

Space effect (Distributed study > cramming)

Testing effect (practicing retrieval strengthens memory)

How much capacity does long term memory have?

Unlimited capacity

What is the hippocampus’ function for memory storage?

temporary storage before consolidation

What helps memory consolidation and how?

Sleep, hippocampus → cortex

What function does the amygdala play in memory storage?

it contains emotional memories

What is recalling?

retrieving information

What is recognition?

identifying information

What is relearning?

Quicker learning after prior exposure

How many retrieval cues are there?

4

priming

context-dependent memory,

state-dependent memory

serial position effect

What is priming?

Unconscious activation of memory associations

What is context-dependent memory?

Recall is better in the same environment

What is state-dependent memory?

Recall is better in the same mood/mental state

What is serial position effect

better recall for first and last items

What happens during encoding failure?

Never properly stored

What happens during storage decay?

Memory weakens over time

What happens during retrieval failure?

Cannot access stored info

What are the two interferences memory forgetfulness?

Proactive when old information disrupts new learning

Retroactive when new information disrupts old memories

What happens during repression?

Blocks anxiety-provoking memories

What is the misinformation effect?

Altered memories due to misleading info

What is source amnesia?

forgetting how we learned something

What are false memories?

when they feel real but are inaccurate