Module 6 - Memory Processes

Levels of Processing

depth of processing determines memory strength

Maintenance Processing

shallow rehearsal (repetition), poor long-term retention

Elaborative Processing

deeper encoding (meaning), improves retrieval

Schema

framework that organizes and interprets information

Reconstructive Memory

memory is rebuilt using schemas, not perfectly stored

False Memories

activate different brain regions than true memories

Amnesia

memory impairment affecting formation or recall

Anterograde Amnesia

inability to form new memories

Retrograde Amnesia

inability to recall past memories

Amnesia Causes

Alzheimer's, Korsakoff's syndrome, concussion

Semantic Memory (Structure)

organized knowledge about the world

Hierarchical Semantic Network

concepts stored in categories (e.g., bird → animal)

Cognitive Economy

properties stored once at highest category level

Spreading Activation

activation spreads to related concepts (doctor → nurse)

Implicit Memory

unconscious memory, prior exposure affects behaviour

Explicit Memory

conscious recall of information (e.g., exams)