Multi-store Memory Model | Atkinson & Shiffrin (1968)

Multi-store Memory Model

Conceptualizing how memory is encoded and stored

Studied by

Atkinson & Shiffrin

Studied during

1968

Sensory Memory

Unknown capacity, only registered when given attention. Rapid decay

Short-Term Memory

Activated memory that holds up to 7 pieces of info before it's stored or forgotten

Long-Term Memory

Relatively permanent and limitless storage of memory. Includes knowledge, skills, and experiences

Iconic Memory

Visual memory, 0.3 seconds long ☆ animation

Echoic Memory

Auditory memory, 3-4 seconds ☆ knowing what people were talking about a second ago

Haptic Memory

Touch memory, 2 seconds

Displacement Decay

Info that isn't rehearsed decaying to make space

RRehearsalConscious repetition of information to turn into long-term memory

Elaborative Rehearsal

Actively thinking about the meaning of the term, most effective due to existing schemas

Maintenance Rehearsal

Simple repetition, less effective

Engram

Information in long-term memory

Explicit/Declarative Memory

Requires some level of conscious thinking

Explicit Semantic Memory

Facts, rules, concepts, general knowledge. Easiest to recall

Explicit Episodic Memory

Events and Experiences

Implicit/Procedural Memory

No conscious thinking required, skills and conditioning ☆ ice skating

Reductionistic; ignores the non-linear and reconstructive nature of memory

focuses on rehearsal but doesn't account for incidental learning; no explanation for how rehearsal is done; long-term memory is reductionist even though there are 4 types