Psych Unit 3 - Memory

Memory

The active process of receiving, processing, storing, and retrieving information required through learning.

Atkinson-Shriffin’s multi-store model

Atkinson and Shiffrin (1968) developed the Multi-Store Model of memory (MSM), which describes flow between three permanent storage systems of memory: the sensory memory (SM), short-term memory (STM) and long-term memory (LTM).

Sensory Memory

A memory store that receives and stores an unlimited amount of incoming, raw, sensory information for a brief time.

Duration: Iconic - 0.3 - 0.5 seconds, Echoic - 3-4 seconds

Capacity: Unlimited

Short-Term Memory

A memory store that has a limited capacity of short duration, provided that the information is being consciously attended to.

Duration: 12 - 30 seconds

Capacity: 7 + or - 2 bits of infomation.

Decay vs Displacement

Decay is where information fades due to a lack of rehearsal whereas Displacement is where information is removed to make room for another bit of information.

Rehearsal

Consciously manipulating information so it remains in STM for longer or transfers to LTM.

Increases STM duration.

Encoding

Information is input and converted into usable form so that it can be stored in memory.

Long-Term Memory

A memory store that is relatively permanent and holds huge amounts of information for a long time.

Duration: Relatively Permanent (Decay can occur)

Storage

Information is organised in a meaningful way and retained in memory over time.

Retrieval

Information is located and recovered from memory when needed

Strengths of the Atkinson-Shriffin Model

1. Findings from memory studies support the distinction between STM and LTM outlined in the model.

2. The model identifies the different stores involved in memory and their differences between function, duration and capacity

Limitations of the Atkinson-Shriffin Model

1. The model ignores other psychological factors like motivation and strategy.

2. It was developed in an artificial environment, so it cannot be proven that it is a natural process as artificial EVs may have occurred.