Ch. 7. 12 & 14 - Improving Studying & the Role of Schemas

What are schemas?

Schemas are organized categories of information that get activated by an event, object, or idea; they act as mental shortcuts guiding expectations and memory.

How do schemas affect memory?

Schemas supplement incomplete memories, help avoid conforming to the obvious, and can contribute to stereotypes.

Give an example of a schema.

For a sports car, schema might include fast, expensive, small, shiny.

What is constructive memory?

Constructive memory involves first recalling a generalized schema and then adding specific details as needed.

What is the difference between schema-consistent and schema-inconsistent memory?

Schema-consistent details are easier to reconstruct but may be incomplete; schema-inconsistent details stand out and are often better remembered.

Give an example of schema-inconsistent memory.

If a biker is expected to be a man with a Harley, noticing an old lady on a bike leads to better memory for the details because it violates the schema.

How do memory errors relate to schemas?

Memory errors tend to make recall more schema-consistent.

What is the testing effect?

Taking a practice test improves later performance.

What is the spacing effect?

Material is better recalled when studied in short sessions spaced over time rather than in a single long session.

What is interleaving in studying?

Interleaving mixes different topics or skills to force attention shifts, making study sessions more effortful and strengthening memory.

What are desirable difficulties?

Study conditions that require effort and deep processing, which improve long-term retention.

How does note-taking facilitate learning?

Note-taking forces synthesis of main points, promotes active learning by engaging attention and working memory, and improves test performance even without review.

What is the generation effect?

Creating or generating information yourself enhances memory more than passive review.

Why is understanding important for memory?

Expertise and understanding allow new knowledge to integrate into existing memory frameworks, improving recall and application.