Retrieval

retrieval cues

smells, sounds, visual elements, sensations, related words/ideas, etc

• stimuli that serve as a connection point to access a memory

types of retrieval: recognition

requires correct identification

recognition examples

• on a test/quiz…

  • multiple choice question

  • fill-in-the-blank w/ a word bank

types of retrieval: recall

direct retrieval of facts and info.

recall examples

• on a test/quiz

  • short answer/essay questions

  • fill-in-the-blank w/o a word bank

priming

the activation, often unconsciously, of particular associations in memory

"wakening of associations” (W. James)

encoding specificity principle

cues specifics to an event or person will most efficiently trigger

context-dependent

improved recall of specif. episodes of info. when the details of the physical environ./location present at encoding and retrieval are the same

mood congruent

refers to our tendency to recall experiences that are consistent with our mood

• thinking of something sad when we are sad

state dependent

memory retrieval is most efficient when individual is in the same state of consciousness (mental/psych state) as they were when the memory was formed

déjà vu

cues from current situation (context) may unconsciously trigger retrieval of an earlier, similar experience

“I've experienced this before”

Tip-of-the-Tongue (TOT) Phenomenon

a type of retrieval failure

the inability to recall a word or idea, while knowing it is in your memory

relearning

the process of reacquiring previously taught knowledge or skills that have been partially or completely forgotten, as a result of inactivity, distractions, or other memory-affecting events

true

T/F: since the brain already established the neural pathway during the initial process, relearning usually requires less time and effort

spacing effect

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

testing effect

it is better to practice retrieval than to merely reread material

• testing yourself on material you are learning through practice tests, flashcards, etc.

serial position effect

easy to remember beginning and end of the list, but more of a struggle to remember the middle

primacy effect

the first items in the list are remembered best in the long-term

recency effect

the last items in a list are remembered best immediately after presentation

next-in-line effect

more difficulty recalling info. presented by others immediately before our own turn to speak (Malcolm Brenner)