Levels of Processing

Flashcards covering the key concepts, definitions, and findings from the Levels of Processing lecture notes.

Levels of Processing Theory

A theory that states deeper, more meaningful processing leads to better long-term memory retention than shallow processing.

Depth of Processing

Refers to the extent to which we analyze and elaborate on information, ranging from superficial to meaningful analysis.

Shallow Processing

Involves analyzing information at a superficial level, focusing on physical characteristics or surface features with little attention paid to meaning.

Deep Processing

Involves analyzing information at a more meaningful level, focusing on semantic content, meaning, and associations.

Incidental Learning

Learning that occurs without the intention to learn; it often happens when participants engage with material without expecting to be tested.

Intentional Learning

Deliberate learning with the expectation that memory will be later tested.

Elaboration

The process of actively connecting new information with existing knowledge to create richer connections, enhancing memory.

Distinctiveness

How unique and different a piece of information is compared to other information; distinctive items are more memorable.

Von Restorff Effect

A phenomenon where an item that is distinctly different from others in a set is more likely to be remembered.

Craik and Tulving (1975) Study

A study that showed that deeper semantic processing led to significantly better memory recall compared to shallow processing.