AP Psychology Unit 2: Module 2.3-2.4

Module 2.3-2.4

encoding

The process of getting information into our the memory system — for example, by extracting meaning.  

storage

the process of retaining encoded information overtime.

retrieval

the process of getting information out of memory storage.

parellel processing

processing multiple aspects of a stimulus or problem simultaneously.

sensory memory

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

short-term memory

briefly activated memory of a few items that is later stored or forgotten.

long-term memory

the relatively permanent and limitless archive of the memory system. Includes knowledge, skills, and experiences.

memory

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

recall

a measure of memory in which the person must retrieve information learned earlier, as on a fill-in-the blank test.

recognition

a measure of memory in which the person identifies items previously learned, as on a multiple choice test.

relearing

a measure of memory that assesses the amount of time saved when learning material again.

working memory

a newer understanding of short-term memory; conscious active processing of both (1) incoming sensory information and (2) information retrieved from long-term memory.

central executive

a memory component that coordinates the activities of the phonological loop and visuospatial sketchpad.

phonological loop

a memory component that briefly holds auditory information.

visuospatial sketchpad

a memory component that briefly holds information about objects’ appearance and location in space.

neurogenesis

the formation of new neurons.

long-term potential

an increase in a nerve cell’s firing potential after brief rapid stimulation; a neural basis for learning and memory.

explicit memory

retention of facts and experiences that we can consciously know and “declare.”

effortful processing

encoding that requires attention and conscious effort.

automatic processing

unconscious encoding of incidental information, such as space, time, and frequency and of familiar or well-learned information, such as sounds, smells, and word meanings.

implicit memory

retention of learned skills or classically conditioned associations independent of conscious recollection.

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 to 4 seconds.

chunking

organizing items into familiar, manageable units; often occurs automatically.

mnemonics

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

spacing effect

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

testing effect

enhanced memory after retrieving, rather than simply rereading information.

shallow processing

encoding on a basic level, based on the structure or appearance.

deep processing

encoding semantically, based on the meaning of the word; tends to yield the best retention.