Working Memory

Acquisition

The process of gaining information and placing it into memory.

Storage

The act of holding information in memory until it is needed.

Retrieval

The process of locating needed information and bringing it into active use.

Atkinson-Shiffrin Model

A model that describes memory as a process involving sensory memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory.

Sensory Memory

A brief storage system for sensory information; plays a minimal role in modern theorizing.

Working Memory

A dynamic form of short-term storage that contains currently activated ideas and thoughts.

Chunking

A strategy to improve working memory by combining several pieces of information into a single unit.

Primacy Effect

The phenomenon where better memory for the first few items in a list occurs.

Recency Effect

The phenomenon where better memory for the last few items in a list occurs, as they have not been displaced.

Hippocampus

Brain region involved in the activation of long-term memory retrieval.

Perirhinal Cortex

Brain region involved in the retrieval of working memory.

Operational Span

A measure of working memory that assesses capacity when processing information simultaneously.

Central Executive

The component of the working memory system that governs the selection and sequencing of thoughts.

Visuospatial Buffer

Also known as the visuospatial sketch pad; it handles visual material and imagery.

Articulatory Rehearsal Loop

The component of working memory that processes verbal information through subvocalization.

Maintenance Rehearsal

A mechanical way of thinking about material, through simple repetition.

Relational Rehearsal

A method of thinking about material in terms of meaning and relationships between items.

Depth of Processing

The concept that deeper engagement with material leads to better retention and recall.

Mnemonic Strategies

Techniques, such as visualization or peg-word systems, that improve memory through organization.

Incidental Learning

Learning that occurs without the intention to learn.

Intentional Learning

Deliberate learning with the expectation of later testing.

Shallow Processing

Superficial engagement with material that leads to poor memory retention.

Deep Processing

Engaging with the meaning of material, which enhances memory retention.

Elaborative Rehearsal

Relating new information to already known information, improving chances of long-term retention.