Evaluation of working memory model

How does the WMM improve on the MSM?

The WMM explains parallel processing, where multiple cognitive tasks can occur at once, unlike the MSM.

Why is the WMM considered more realistic than the MSM?

It views short-term memory as an active processor rather than a passive store, better reflecting how memory works in real life.

How can the WMM be applied in real life?

It helps explain processing deficits such as reading difficulties and can be used to improve therapies.

Why is research supporting the WMM considered reliable?

It is often lab-based, meaning high control, strong internal validity, and replicable findings.

How does brain imaging support the WMM?

Studies (e.g., Braver, 1997) show different brain areas are active for different tasks, supporting separate components.

What does the KF case study show about the WMM?

KF could recall visual but not verbal information, supporting separate stores for phonological and visual memory.

Why do WMM studies lack ecological validity?

Tasks (e.g., repeating “the the the”) are artificial and do not reflect everyday memory use.

Why might WMM findings lack external validity?

Lab-based tasks may not generalise to real-life situations due to low mundane realism.

Why is the central executive criticised?

It is a vague concept with unclear functions and is difficult to test scientifically

How does the addition of the episodic buffer show a weakness?

It suggests the original model was incomplete and needed further development.