Introduction to Memory - Topic 2.3 Practice Flashcards

Comprehensive practice flashcards covering memory types, processing models, and neurophysiological foundations based on the lecture notes.

What is the cognitive definition of memory according to the transcript?

Memory is the cognitive process of encoding, storing, and retrieving information, which is essential for learning, decision-making, and navigating daily life.

What are the two specific types of explicit memory?

Episodic memory and semantic memory.

How is episodic memory defined within the explicit memory category?

A subtype of explicit memory that involves the recollection of personal experiences and specific events, including the context such as time, place, and associated emotions.

What is semantic memory?

A subtype of explicit memory that involves the recall of general world knowledge, facts, concepts, and meanings that are not tied to personal experiences.

What characterizes implicit memory?

The unconscious retention and retrieval of information acquired without deliberate effort, including skills, habits, and associations that influence behavior without conscious awareness.

What is procedural memory?

A type of implicit memory that involves the acquisition of motor skills and cognitive routines through repetition and practice, allowing for automatic performance.

What does prospective memory refer to?

The ability to remember to perform intended actions in the future, either at a specific time or in response to a particular cue.

What is the biological process known as long-term potentiation (LTP)?

A neurophysiological process involving the strengthening of synapses between neurons through frequent activation, resulting in enhanced signal transmission.

According to the working memory model, what are the three components that interact with the primary system?

The central executive, phonological loop, and visuospatial sketchpad.

What is the role of the central executive in the working memory system?

It is responsible for allocating attentional resources, coordinating information processing, and integrating inputs from the phonological loop and visuospatial sketchpad.

What is the function of the phonological loop?

The temporary storage and rehearsal of auditory and verbal information, supporting language processing and verbal reasoning.

What is the visuospatial sketchpad responsible for?

The temporary storage and manipulation of visual and spatial information, supporting mental imagery and navigation.

What three interacting systems are proposed by the multi-store model?

Sensory memory (including iconic and echoic memory), short-term memory, and long-term memory.

What is iconic memory, and how long does it typically last?

A type of sensory memory involving the brief retention of visual information, typically lasting for less than $1\,\text{second}$.

What is echoic memory, and what is its typical duration?

A type of sensory memory involving the brief retention of auditory information that holds a trace of sound for approximately $3\,\text{to}\,4\,\text{seconds}$.

How long does information typically stay in short-term memory (STM) without rehearsal?

Approximately $20$-$30\,\text{seconds}$.

What is the difference between automatic and effortful processing?

Automatic processing is the effortless encoding of information without conscious awareness, while effortful processing requires conscious attention, effort, and strategies like rehearsal or mnemonic devices.

Define the process of encoding in the Information Processing Model.

Encoding is the process of converting sensory information into a neural code that the brain can use, organize, and store.

Define the process of storage in the Information Processing Model.

Storage is the retention of encoded information over time within memory systems for future use.

Define the process of retrieval in the Information Processing Model.

Retrieval is the process of accessing and bringing to mind previously encoded and stored information when needed.

What are the three levels of processing proposed by the levels of processing model, from shallowest to deepest?

Structural processing, phonemic processing, and semantic processing.

What occurs during structural processing?

Information is encoded based on physical characteristics, such as shape, size, or color, representing the shallowest level of processing.

What is phonemic processing?

An intermediate level of processing that involves encoding information based on its sound or pronunciation.

What is semantic processing?

The deepest level of processing, which involves encoding information based on its meaning and relevance by relating it to existing knowledge.