Atkinson-Shiffrin Multi-Store Model of Memory

Memory

is the processing, storage and retrieval of information acquired through learning

Memory process

1. Encoding

2. Storage

3. Retrieval

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Atkinson-Shiffrin multi-store model

Sensory Memory Function

The entry point of memory where new information is stored for a very brief period

Sensory Memory Duration

Momentary, up to 10 seconds

Capacity

Vast, potentially unlimited

Iconic sensory memory

Replica of visual information that lasts 0.3 to 0.5 seconds with an unlimited capacity

Echoic sensory memory

Replica of auditory information that lasts 3 to 4 seconds with an unlimited capacity

Short term memory function

Information received into short term memory is encoded and stored for a brief period unless a conscious effort is made to keep it there longer

Short term memory duration

18 - 30 seconds

Capacity

5 - 9 items at a time

Displacement

When short term memory is full with items, new items can only enter through pushing one item out

Decay

reached duration of term memory and gotten forgotten

Maintenance rehearsal

when you repeat the information being remembered and it stays in short term memory

Elaborate rehearsal

involves giving meaning to new information and making associations with other information already stored in your long-term memory

Long term memory function

Information storage for re-access and use at a later time

Long term memory duration

Potentially permanent

Long term memory capacity

Potentially unlimited

Explicit memory

involves memory that occurs when information can be consciously or intentionally retrieved and stated.

Explicit components

• Episodic

• Semantic

Episodic

The memory of personally experienced events

Semantic

The memory of facts and knowledge about the world

Implicit memory

does not require conscious or intentional retrieval

Implicit components

• Procedural

• Classically conditioned

Procedural

The memory of motor skills and actions that have been learned previously

Classically conditioned

They are unconscious and involuntary associations between stimuli therefore it is implicit

Strengths vs Limitations of Model

One of the strengths is its ability to explain distinct short-term and long-term memory stores, supported by research on rehearsal and different storage capacities. However, the model is criticized for being too simplistic, lacking nuance in explaining memory distortion or individual differences, and potentially overemphasizing rehearsal