Memory and language

Encoding

The process of converting sensory information into a form that can be organized and stored into memory.

The Spacing Effect

Spreading out learning over time to improve retention rather than cramming into one session.

Retrieval Cues

Hints that assist in retrieving information from memory, such as smells, words, and sounds.

Ebbinghaus Forgetting Curve

Principles stating that memories weaken over time, with the biggest decline happening soon after learning, and the mood while learning affects retention.

Repression

A defense mechanism theory that causes us to block out traumatic memories to prevent emotional harm.

Context Effects

The influence of the environment on one's perception of stimuli.

Sensory Memory

Holds information received from our senses for brief moments of time, with most information lost.

Short-Term Memory

Also known as working memory; holds information for around 30 seconds.

Long-Term Memory

Permanent storage of information lasting from 30 seconds to a lifetime.

Explicit Memory

Memory that can be verbalized, divided into semantic and episodic.

Implicit Memory

Memory that we can do unconsciously, such as tying a shoelace.

Iconic Memory

Visual memory that lasts just under a second.

Echoic Memory

Auditory memory that lasts under four seconds.

Rehearsal

Practicing something to better recall it in the future.

Recognition

Identifying previously learned items, like on a multiple choice exam.

Relearning

Learning material again, which takes less time to recall.

Automatic Processing

Unconscious encoding of information requiring little to no effort.

Semantic Encoding

Deep processing involving encoding information based on meaning.

Context-Dependent Memory

Easier recall of information when in the same environment it was learned.

Mood-Congruent Memory

Better recall of information when in the same mood as when it was learned.

State-Dependent Memory

Recall of information while in the same mental state as when learned.

Misinformation Effect

Memory altered by misleading information after an event, leading to inaccuracies.

Source Amnesia

Inability to remember where or how information was acquired.

Chunking

Breaking down information into smaller pieces to remember it better.

Hierarchical Organization (Hierarchies)

Structures information in levels of importance of specificity.

Retroactive Interference

Newer information disrupts recall of previously learned information.

Proactive Interference

Older information disrupts recall of new information.

Effortful Processing

Encoding that requires focused attention and thought.

Phonemes

Smallest unit of sound.

Morphemes

Smallest unit of meaning.

Semantics

The study of meaning in words or sentences.

Grammar

Rules on how a language is structured.

Syntax

Rules on arranging words.

Cooing

Using vowel shapes to make sounds.

Babbling

Combining vowels and consonants to create sounds.

One Word (Holophrastic) Stage

Using single words to represent entire ideas.

Telegraphic Speech

Putting 2-3 words together to form phrases with deeper meaning.

Overgeneralization

Applying grammar rules too broadly.