Psych Memory Vocab

memory

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

encoding

the process of getting information into the memory system.

retrieval

the process of getting information out of memory storage

sensory memory

the immediate, very brief recording of sensory information in the memory system.

short-term memory

activated memory that holds a few items briefly (such as the seven digits of a phone number while dialing) before the information is stored or forgotten

long-term

the relatively permanent and limitless storehouse of the memory system

• Includes knowledge, skills, and experiences. 

working memory

a newer understanding of short-term memory that stresses conscious, active processing of incoming auditory and visual-spatial information, and of information retrieved from long-term memory.

explicit memory (declarative memory)

memory of facts and personal events you can consciously retrieve.

effortful processing

encoding that requires attention and conscious effort.

implicit memory (nondeclarative memory)

retaining learned skills, or classically conditioned associations, without conscious awareness

automatic processing

unconscious encoding of everyday information, such as space, time, and frequency, and of well-learned information, such as word meanings.

chunking

organizing items into familiar, manageable units; often occurs automatically

mnemonics

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

spacing effect

the tendency for distributed study or practice to yield better long-term retention than is achieved through massed study or practice.

testing effect

enhanced memory after retrieving, rather than simply rereading. information

• referred to as the retrieval practice effect or test-enhanced learning.

hippocampus

a neural center located in the limbic system; helps process explicit memories for storage.

storage

the process of retaining encoded information over time