Memory Functions and Reinforcement Schedules

Latent learning

Learning that occurs without any obvious reinforcement and is not immediately reflected in behavior.

Schedules of Reinforcement

Rules that determine how and when reinforcement is delivered.

VR (Variable Ratio)

Very fast learning, high and steady response rate.

FR (Fixed Ratio)

Fast learning, high response rate but pauses after reinforcement.

VI (Variable Interval)

Moderate speed of learning, response rate slow but consistent.

FI (Fixed Interval)

Slow learning, response rate increases when close to reinforcement (scalloping effect), but slows down afterwards.

Encoding

The process of converting information into a format that can be stored in memory.

Storage

The retention of encoded information over time.

Retrieval

The process of accessing and bringing stored information back into consciousness when needed.

Automatic Processing

The unconscious encoding of information with little to no effort.

Effortful Processing

The conscious and intentional encoding of information that requires attention and effort.

Semantic Encoding

The process of encoding information based on its meaning.

Self-reference effect

The tendency for an individual to have better memory for information that relates to oneself in comparison to information that has less personal relevance.

Visual Encoding

The process of encoding information through visual images or spatial relationships.

Acoustic Encoding

The process of encoding information based on its sound.

Sensory Memory

A brief, initial stage of memory that holds sensory information for a fraction of a second to a few seconds.

Short-term Memory (STM)

A temporary memory system that holds information for a short duration (typically 15-30 seconds) and can store about 7±2 items (magic number).

Rehearsal

The process of consciously repeating information to keep it in short-term memory or to transfer it to long-term memory.

Long-term Memory (LTM)

A more permanent memory system that stores information for extended periods, from hours to a lifetime.

Semantic networks

Structures that represent how concepts are organized in the brain by linking related ideas together.

Spreading activation

Activating one concept (or node) triggers the activation of related concepts.

Implicit Memories

Unconscious and automatic memory, like skills and habits, which you perform without thinking.

Explicit Memories

A type of long-term memory that involves conscious recall of facts, events, or experiences.

Episodic Memory

A type of explicit memory that involves the recall of personal experiences and specific events from your life.

Semantic Memory

A type of explicit memory that refers to your general knowledge about the world.

Procedural Memory

A type of implicit memory that involves knowledge of how to perform tasks and actions, often without conscious awareness.

Emotional Conditioning

A type of implicit memory that involves the unconscious association between emotions and specific stimuli.

Recall

The ability to retrieve information or memories without cues.

Recognition

The process of identifying information or stimuli that have been encountered before when presented with it again.

Relearning

The process of retrieving previously learned information that has been forgotten, where the material is acquired more quickly during subsequent learning attempts.

Engram

A theoretical construct representing the physical trace or imprint of a memory in the brain.

Equipotentiality hypothesis

Some parts of the brain can take over for damaged parts in forming and storing memories.