Myers-Psychology-for-AP-Textbook-359-369.docx (copy)

Memory

The persistence of learning over time through the encoding, storage, and retrieval of information.

Explicit Memory

Memory of facts and experiences that one can consciously know and declare; also called declarative memory.

Implicit Memory

Retention independent of conscious recollection; also called nondeclarative memory.

Sensory Memory

The immediate, very brief recording of sensory information in the memory system.

Short-term Memory

Activated memory that holds a few items briefly before the information is stored or forgotten.

Working Memory

A newer understanding of short-term memory that focuses on conscious, active processing of incoming information.

Encoding

The processing of information into the memory system, for example, by extracting meaning.

Storage

The process of retaining encoded information over time.

Retrieval

The process of getting information out of memory storage.

Chunking

Organizing items into familiar, manageable units to enable easier recall.

Mnemonics

Memory aids, especially those techniques that use vivid imagery and organizational devices.

Heirarchies

Organizing knowledge into broad concepts that can be divided and subdivided into narrower concepts.

Automatic Processing

Unconscious encoding of incidental information, such as space, time, and frequency.

Effortful Processing

Encoding that requires attention and conscious effort.

Parallel Processing

The processing of many aspects of a problem simultaneously; the brain’s natural mode of information processing.

Shallow Processing

Encoding on a basic level based on the structure or appearance of words.

Deep Processing

Encoding semantically, based on the meaning of the words; tends to yield the best retention.

Spacing Effect

The tendency for distributed study or practice to yield better long-term retention than is achieved through massed study or practice.

Testing Effect

Enhanced memory after retrieving, rather than simply rereading, information.

Iconic Memory

A momentary sensory memory of visual stimuli; a photographic or picture-image memory lasting no more than a few tenths of a second.

Echoic Memory

A momentary sensory memory of auditory stimuli; if attention is elsewhere, sounds and words can still be recalled within 3 or 4 seconds.

Self-reference Effect

The tendency to better remember information that is personally meaningful or related to oneself.