Memory Processes and Models

These flashcards cover key concepts of memory processes, models, and types of memory as discussed in the lecture notes.

Memory

System that senses, organizes, stores, and retrieves information.

Encoding

The process of converting environmental and mental stimuli into memorable brain codes.

Storage

The act of holding on to encoded information.

Retrieval

The process of pulling information from storage.

Information-Processing Model

Assumes that the processing of information for memory storage is similar to the way a computer processes memory in a series of three stages.

Parallel Distributed Processing Model

Proposes that memory processes take place simultaneously across a large network of neural connections.

Levels-of-Processing Model

Assumes that information processed more deeply will be remembered more efficiently and for a longer time.

Sensory Memory

First stage of memory; where information enters the nervous system through sensory systems.

Selective Attention

The ability to focus on only one stimulus from among all sensory input.

Short Term Memory

Memory system where information is held briefly while being used.

Chunking

Combining bits of information into meaningful units to hold more information in short term memory.

Maintenance Rehearsal

The practice of repeating information in order to retain it in short-term memory.

Long-Term Memory

System of memory where information is placed for long-term storage.

Procedural Memory

Memory for motor skills and habits; things we know how to do.

Declarative Memory

Memory for facts and events; knowledge that can be consciously recalled.

Semantic Memory

Type of declarative memory; including facts and general knowledge.

Episodic Memory

Type of declarative memory; personal experiences and specific events.

Retrieval Cue

A prompt that assists in the retrieval of memories.

Encoding Specificity

The tendency for memory to be enhanced when related information is available during both the formation and retrieval of a memory.

Recall

Retrieving information without cues.

Recognition

Identifying previously learned information with cues.

Tip of the Tongue Phenomenon

The feeling that a memory is just out of reach but not accessible.

Serial Position Effect

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

False Positive

An error in which people think they recognize information that is not actually in memory.

Flashbulb Memories

Highly detailed and vivid memories of significant events.

Constructive Processing

Retrieval of memories that may be altered or influenced by newer information.

Forgetting

Failure to properly store information for later use.

Ebbinghaus' Curve of Forgetting

Describes how information is lost over time when there is no attempt to retain it.

Retrograde Amnesia

Loss of memory for events prior to a trauma or injury.

Anterograde Amnesia

Inability to form new memories after a trauma or injury.

Proactive Interference

When older memories interfere with the retrieval of newer memories.

Retroactive Interference

When newer memories disturb the recall of older memories.

Hippocampus

Brain structure crucial for the formation of new declarative memories.