Psych Module 31 & 32

Memory

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

Information Processing Model

Involves three processes: encoding, storage, and retrieval.

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.

Working Memory

A newer understanding of short term memory that focuses on conscious active processing of incoming auditory and visual spatial information.

Explicit Memory

Memory of facts and experiences that one can consciously know and declare, also known as declarative memory.

Implicit Memory

Retention independent of conscious recollection, also known as nondeclarative memory.

Iconic Memory

A momentary sensory memory of visual stimulus, lasting no more than a few tenths of a second.

Echoic Memory

A momentary sensory memory of auditory stimulus, recalled within ¾ seconds.

Chunking

Organizing items into familiar manageable units, often occurs automatically.

Mnemonics

Memory aids, especially techniques that use vivid imagery and organizational devices.

Testing Effect

Enhanced memory after retrieving information, rather than simply rereading it.

Shallow Processing

Encoding on a basic level based on the structure or appearance of words.

Deep Processing

Encoding semantically based on the meaning of words, tends to yield the best retention.

Hippocampus

A neural center in the limbic system that helps process explicit memories for storage.

Flashbulb Memory

A clear memory of an emotionally significant moment or event.

Long Term Potentiation (LTP)

An increase in a cell’s firing potential after brief rapid stimulation, believed to be a neural basis for learning/memory.

Recall

A measure of memory in which the person must retrieve information learned earlier.

Recognition

A measure of memory in which the person need only identify items previously learned.

Relearning

A measure of memory that assesses the amount of time saved when learning material again.

Priming

The unconscious activation of particular associations in memory.

Mood Congruent Memory

The tendency to recall experiences consistent with one’s current mood.

Serial Position Effect

The tendency to recall best the last (recency effect) and first items (primacy effect) in a list.

Parallel Processing

The processing of many aspects of a problem simultaneously, as opposed to step-by-step processing.