20 Reconstructive Memory in Cognitive Processes

These flashcards cover key concepts related to reconstructive memory, schemas, and scripts in cognitive psychology, with definitions highlighting major findings and theories discussed in the lecture.

Reproductive Memory

A memory that is a 100% accurate 'carbon copy' of an event, which is incredibly rare.

Reconstructive Memory

A construction of memory that begins with a core and adds plausible details; this is common.

Schemas

Knowledge structures that enable prediction and organization, acting as filters for information.

Scripts

Organized clusters of knowledge about sequences of events, associated with a highly familiar activity.

Bartlett (1932)

Noted that peripheral details in stories are often left out, leading to stories becoming 'normalized' and shorter.

Brewer & Treyen (1981)

Research showing recall of items consistent with the 'office schema' and the lack of recall for inconsistent items.

Incidental Learning

A type of learning where individuals remember consistent things related to a schema.

Intentional Learning

A type of learning where individuals remember inconsistent things related to a schema.

Functions of Scripts

Scripts aid in planning and performing standard, everyday activities, and help understand others' actions.

Default Value in Scripts

Common, typical value associated with elements of a script that guide expectations.

Components of Scripts

Headers and phrases or words that activate a script, including frames and details.

Core of Reconstructive Memory

Starts with a central idea or core event and builds context with plausible details.

Canonical Order in Scripts

The expected sequence of actions in an ordered script, remembered more accurately.

Misordered Item Recall

The tendency to recall misordered items closer to their appropriate positions.

Takeaways about Schemas and Scripts

Knowledge about familiar situations, serve as mental shortcuts, encourage integrated representations, and influence encoding/retrieval process.

Peripheral Details

Details in a narrative that are often omitted during retrieval in reconstructive memory.