3.2 Models of Memory (Working Memory Model)

Memory

Memory refers to the processes by which we encode, store, and retrieve information over time.

STM isn't unitary?

Research revealed some phenomena that did not fit well with the view of the STM as a unitary system.

How did these results come about? (STM isn't unitary)

These 'uncomfortable' results came from research studies that utilized the dual-task technique.

What is the Dual-task technique?

In this technique, the participant is required to perform two memory operations simultaneously. For example, listen to list of words (auditory) and memorize series of shapes. (visual)

How does this prove STM isn't unitary?

If STM really is a unitary store, the two sets of stimuli should interfere with each other, so memory will be limited by 7 (+-2) of whatever modality. However, it was discovered that in some cases performing a simultaneous task does not interfere with memory performance.

Who wanted to explain the findings?

Baddeley and Hitch (1974)

How did Baddeley and Hitch (1974) do this?

In 1974, Baddeley and Hitch developed the working memory model. This model focuses on the structure of the STM.

Working Memory Model

Baddeley et al. (1975)

Original Model?

In the original model, working memory consists of a central executive that coordinates two subsystems: the visuospatial sketchpad and the phonological loop.

The visuospatial sketchpad?

The visuospatial sketchpad holds visual and spatial information

The phonological loop?

The phonological loop holds sound information and is further subdivided into the phonological store ("inner ear") and the articulatory rehearsal component ("inner voice").

The inner voice?

First, it turn visual into sounds.

Second, it allows the rehearsal of information held by the inner ear.

The central executive?

allocates resources between the visuospatial sketchpad and the phonological loop

Attention Control:

• Automatic level: Schema based thinking

• Supervisory Level:

  • planning and decision making

  • new strategies when old ones are not sufficient

Episodic Buffer?

Acts as a temporary and passive display store

it communicates with both long-term memory and the components of working memory.

Baddeley argues it is responsible for conscious awareness

Baddeley et al. (1975)

To assess evidence for the phonological loop by exploring whether working memory is more closely related to the number of items or the time it takes to say those items in mind.

Method

True Laboratory Experiment

Design

Independent Measures

Year

1975

Sampling Strategy

Convenience; 74 participants

IV

Engaged in suppression or were silent

DV

How many words were recalled in the correct order

Procedure

Ppts were familiarised with both word pools before experiment began

Word lists were presented on a memory drum 1.5 seconds per word

Findings

Phonological Loop holds the amount of information that you can say in 1.5 - 2 seconds

Hard to remember a list of long words and therefore inhibits rehearsal of longer words

Short time to say = remember better

World length effect dissapears when you have articulate suppression task

Conclusion

Phonological loop has a role in capacity of STM.

Amount of info is due to length of time to say not number of items