Memory and Learning - Vocabulary (Lecture 1)

Vocabulary flashcards covering neural development, memory types, encoding/retrieval, and Long-Term Potentiation as discussed in Lecture 1.

Nervous system

The network of neurons and supporting cells that transmit electrical signals.

Neuron

Excitable cell that transmits electrical signals.

Synapse

Junction where a neuron sends a chemical signal to another cell.

Presynaptic

The neuron that releases neurotransmitters across a synapse to signal the postsynaptic cell.

Postsynaptic

The cell that receives the signal at a synapse.

Gene expression

How DNA is used to make functional products (e.g., proteins) in the nervous system.

Signal transduction

The cascade of molecular events that transmits a signal and regulates cellular responses; governs timing of expression.

Neural development

Brain development before birth; genetics determine basic nervous system structure via gene expression and signal transduction.

Neuronal plasticity

The brain's ability to modify synaptic connections after birth based on experience.

Activity-dependent

Changes in neural connections that depend on neural activity and experiences.

Memories

Long-lasting changes in the brain resulting from learning; enduring records of learned information.

Memory

The stored representation of learned information; the brain's memory system, distinct from the process of learning.

Sensory memory

Initial buffer of sensory input; if attention is paid, information moves to short-term memory.

Short-term memory (STM) / Working memory

Conscious awareness of information held briefly, typically about 7±2 items.

Long-term memory

Permanent storage of information in the brain; entry into LTM occurs via repetition, chunking, mnemonic devices, self-referencing, teaching, and spacing.

Encoding

Translating external information into a brain-friendly representation.

Retrieval

Bringing stored memory from LTM back into working/short-term memory for use.

Chunking

Grouping information into larger, meaningful units to ease memory load.

Mnemonic devices

Techniques that link new information with existing memories to aid recall.

Self-referencing

Relating information to yourself to improve retention.

Spacing

Studying information in spaced intervals over time to improve retention.

Learning

The process of acquiring knowledge or skills; uses memories to improve performance; not the same as memory.

Long-Term Potentiation (LTP)

Persistent strengthening of synapses due to activity; a brain process essential for learning; not a memory itself.