The Neurobiology of Learning and Memory - Chapter 1

Learning

The process of acquiring representations of new information.

Memory

The persistence of information in a state that can be revealed at a later time.

Neurobiology

The study of the brain's structures, functions, and processes.

Ebbinghaus

A psychologist known for developing scientific methods to assess memory acquisition and retention.

Forgetting Curve

A graphical representation showing the decline of memory retention over time.

Single-Trace Theory

A theory suggesting that the strength of a memory trace declines monotonically over time.

Dual-Trace Theory

A theory explaining that memory retention involves both short-term and long-term traces.

Ribot’s Law

The principle that old memories are more resistant to disruption than newer memories.

Korsakoff’s Syndrome

A condition characterized by anterograde and retrograde amnesia, often caused by alcoholism.

Neuron Doctrine

The concept that the brain is made of discrete cells called neurons.

Synaptic Plasticity Hypothesis

The idea that the strength of a synaptic connection can be modified by experience.

Pavlovian Conditioning

A learning process in which a neutral stimulus becomes associated with a meaningful stimulus.

Law of Effect

The principle stating that rewards strengthen S-R connections while punishments weaken them.