Memory 101: Understanding the Basics

AP Psych Chapter 3

Memory

The ability to encode, store and retrieve information

Encoding

Getting information INTO memory

Storage

Keeping information in memory over time

Retrieval

Getting info OUT of memory

Multi-Store Model

Memory flows from sensory to short term to long term

Sensory Memory

Very brief memory of sensory info

Iconic Memory

Brief visual sensory memory

Echoic Memory

Brief auditory sensory memory

Short Term Memory

Holds a small amount of info briefly

Long Term Memory

Stores info for a long time

Working Memory

Actively processes and uses information

Central Executive

Directs attention and controls working memory

Phonological Loop

Handles verbal and auditory information

Visuospatial Sketchpad

Handles visual and spatial info

Long Term Potentiation

Strengthening of neural connections through repeated use

Capacity

Short term memory is limited, long term is unlimited

Forgetting

Can occur at any stage of memory processing and is a normal part of memory process. Reasons for this include failure to encode properly, memories fading over time, or retrieval failure

Influence Of Attention And Emotion

Memory is significantly influenced by this; only the info that recieves this becomes a strong memory

Malleability

Memory can be reconstructed

Interference

Newer info can _________ with retrieval of older memories (Challenge for retrieval)

Context

Being in the same ________ in which the info was learned is good for recall

Cues

Specific _____ linked to info when it was encoded can help trigger memory recall

Rehearsal

Repeating info to keep it in short term memory or to help encode it into long term memory

Filters Stimuli

Handles enormous amount of sensory data and filters out umimportant info (Function for sensory info)

Supports Perceptions

Helps in stabilizing visual/auditory perceptions, providing a continuous experience rather than a series of disjointed inputs (Function for sensory info)

Articulatory Rehearsal Process

Helps to keep items in the phonological store from decaying by silently repeating them, talking to yourself in your head