Reconstructive Memory Explained

Vocabulary flashcards covering the core concepts, stages, statistics, and cognitive frameworks of reconstructive memory as presented by Professor Downey.

Reconstructive Memory

The concept that memory is not a photographic or retentive recording, but an active rebuilding of past experiences using fragments, interpretation, context, and expectations.

Memory Reconstruction

The cognitive process in which the brain fills in missing gaps during recall using prior knowledge, expectations, and related cues, often leading to inaccurate recollections.

Three-Stage Model of Memory

A framework describing memory processing across three distinct stages: encoding, storage, and retrieval.

Encoding

The memory process of transforming sensory input into a format that can be stored in memory for later use.

Storage

The phase of memory referring to the maintenance of information over time, allowing memories to persist and be accessed when needed.

Retrieval

The act of accessing stored memories from the brain, which can sometimes introduce distortions and inaccuracies.

Short Story Recall Difficulty Rate

The statistic showing that $75\%$ of participants struggle to accurately recall details from a short story after a single hearing.

Average Memory Task Accuracy Rate

The finding that approximately $70\%$ of details recalled from memory tasks can be accurate, though subject to variability based on context and emotional state.

Expectations (in Memory)

Mental anticipation that shapes how memories are formed and recalled, often filling in memory gaps with logical conclusions rather than factual information.

Gist

The overall meaning or essence of an event that individuals tend to remember instead of the exact details.

Confidence (in Memory)

A subjective feeling of certainty regarding a recalled event that does not guarantee the actual factual accuracy of the memory.

Schemas and Scripts

Cognitive frameworks that help organize and interpret information, shaping memory recall for common situations such as grocery shopping.

Semantic Networks

Interconnected cognitive frameworks of related concepts that influence how memories are retrieved based on associations formed over time.

Semantic Reconstruction

The memory process highlighting that recollections are shaped by meanings and associations, making general concepts easier to remember than exact details.