studying and encoding memories (module 31)

Memory

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

Recall

A measure of memory in which the person must retrieve information learned earlier (e.g., a fill-in-the-blank test).

Recognition

A measure of memory in which the person identifies items previously learned (e.g., a multiple-choice test).

Relearning

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

Encoding

The initial processing of information into the memory system.

Storage

The process of retaining encoded information over time.

Retrieval

The process of getting information out of memory storage.

Parallel Processing

The processing of many aspects of a problem or stimulus simultaneously.

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 before the information is stored or forgotten.

Long-Term Memory

The relatively permanent and limitless storehouse of the memory system, including knowledge, skills, and experiences.

Working Memory

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

Explicit Memory (Declarative Memory)

Memory of facts and experiences that one can consciously know and 'declare.'

Effortful Processing

Encoding that requires attention and conscious effort.

Implicit Memory (Nondeclarative Memory)

Retention of learned skills or classically conditioned associations independent of conscious recollection.

Automatic Processing

Unconscious encoding of incidental information and of well-learned information.

Iconic Memory

A momentary sensory memory of visual stimuli; a photographic or picture-image memory lasting no more than a few tenths of a second.

Echoic Memory

A momentary sensory memory of auditory stimuli; sounds and words can still be recalled within 3 or 4 seconds if attention was elsewhere.

Chunking

Organizing items into familiar, manageable units; often occurs automatically.

Mnemonics

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

Hierarchies

Structure where complex information is divided into broad concepts and subdivided into narrower categories.

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.

Shallow Processing

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

Deep Processing

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