Psych 2.3

Memory

the persistence of learning over time, information that has been acquired and stored and can be retrieved

Encoding

the first stage of creating a memory, where perceived information is transformed into a format that can be processed and stored in the brain

Storage

the second stage of creating a memory, the process of retaining information in the brain over time

Retrieval

the third stage of creating a memory,  the process of accessing and bringing stored information back into conscious awareness 

Multi-Store Model

describes memory as a three-part system

Sensory Memory

the initial stage of memory where sensory information is stored for a very brief period. It acts as a buffer for stimuli received through the senses and retains impressions of these stimuli for a few seconds at most

Iconic Memory

type of sensory memory that briefly holds visual images, captures a precise copy of a visual scene for a fraction of a second before it fades

Echoic Memory

type of sensory memory that retains auditory information, holds sounds for about 3-4 seconds, allowing the brain to process spoken language and other auditory stimuli 

Short-Term Memory

 temporarily holds a small amount of information, typically for about 15-30 seconds, has a limited capacity.

Long-Term Memory

the stage of memory where information is stored indefinitely with a virtually unlimited capacity. It allows for the long-term retention of knowledge, skills, experiences, and facts 

Working Memory

form of short-term memory used for temporarily holding and manipulating information. Short-term and long-term memories combine

Explicit Memories

involves conscious recall of facts and experiences

Semantic Memory

type of explicit memory that involves the recall of general facts and knowledge about the world, dependent on personal experience and context

Episodic Memory

type of explicit memory that involves the recollection of personal experiences and specific events, recalled from first person POV

Central Executive

the control center of working memory. It manages attention, coordinates other memory components, and integrates information from our senses and long-term memory

Phonological Loop

component of Working Memory responsible for processing and storing verbal and auditory information, temporarily holds words and sounds for a few seconds and rehearses and refreshes information through subvocal repetition

Visuospatial Sketchpad

component of Working Memory that handles visual and spatial information, allows for the temporary storage and manipulation of images and spatial relationships

Long-Term Potentiation (LTP)

a persistent strengthening of synapses (connections between neurons) that’s considered a primary cellular mechanism for learning and memory, involving enhanced communication after repeated, high frequency neural activity, leading to more responsive neurons 

Autobiographical Memory

type of memory that encompasses events and experiences from an individual’s own life, combines personal experiences with specific contexts and emotions and general personal information that defines self

Implicit Memories

does not require conscious thought, is crucial for performing everyday tasks

Procedural Memory

type of implicit memory that involves the recall of how to perform tasks or skills automatically, includes skill-based actions (ex. typing) and actions performed without conscious thought

Prospective Memory

remembering to perform a planned action or recall a planned intention at some future point, Remembering to perform an action at a specific time (ex. taking medication at noon)

Maintenance Rehearsal

learning technique that involves repeatedly reviewing information to keep it in short-term memory

Massed Practice “Cramming”

learning strategy where content is studied intensively over a short period without breaks

Spacing Effect “Distributive Practice”

the phenomenon where learning is more effective when study sessions are spaced out over time, rather than crammed into one session

Elaborative Rehearsal

memory technique that involves deep processing of information by adding meaning or connecting it to existing knowledge