Memory Processes and Models

Flashcards defining core concepts of memory processes, types of memory, neural and cognitive models, and encoding processes.

Storage

The process of retaining encoded information over time for later use.

Retrieval

The process of accessing and bringing stored information into conscious awareness.

Explicit memory

Memories of facts and experiences that one can consciously know and declare.

Episodic memory

Memory of specific events or personal experiences tied to a particular time and place.

Semantic memory

Memory of general knowledge, concepts, and facts not linked to personal experience.

Implicit memory

Retention of learned skills or conditioned associations independent of conscious recollection.

Procedural memory

A type of implicit memory for automatic skills and actions, such as riding a bike.

Prospective memory

Remembering to perform actions in the future, like taking medicine at a certain time.

Long-term potentiation (LTP)

The strengthening of neural connections through repeated activation, linked to learning and memory.

Working memory model

A theory describing memory as an active system with multiple components for temporarily holding and manipulating information.

Primary memory system

The immediate memory storage that holds small amounts of information currently in use.

Working memory

The part of short-term memory that actively processes and manipulates information for current tasks.

Central executive

The control center of working memory that directs attention and coordinates other subsystems.

Phonological loop

The verbal and auditory component of working memory used to rehearse words or sounds.

Visuospatial sketchpad

The part of working memory that handles visual and spatial information.

Long-term memory

The relatively permanent and limitless storehouse of the memory system.

Multi-store model

A model proposing three stages: sensory memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory.

Sensory memory

The brief storage of sensory information immediately following stimulation.

Iconic memory

A momentary sensory memory of visual stimuli.

Echoic memory

A brief sensory memory of auditory stimuli.

Automatic processing

Unconscious encoding of incidental information such as time, space, and frequency.

Effortful processing

Encoding that requires conscious effort and attention.

Encoding

The process of converting information into a form that can be stored in memory.

Levels of processing model

The theory that deeper levels of analysis produce more durable memories.

Shallow encoding

Encoding based on surface features, like the appearance of words.

Deep encoding

Encoding based on meaning, which leads to stronger memory retention.

Structural, phonemic, semantic

Types of encoding: visual (structure), sound (phonemic), and meaning (semantic).