PSYC1000 – Week 7 Memory Part 2

These flashcards cover key concepts related to memory processes, including encoding, storage, retrieval, and factors influencing memory retention and forgetting.

Encoding

The first step in memory in which information is transformed into a form that can be stored in the brain.

Selective Attention

The process of focusing on relevant information while filtering out distractions.

Semantic Encoding

Encoding information based on its meaning.

Acoustic Encoding

Encoding information based on sound, especially the sound of words.

Visual Encoding

Encoding information based on images or visual characteristics.

Storage

The retention of encoded information over time in memory.

Levels of Processing (LOP)

A theory suggesting that deeper processing of information leads to better long-term memory.

Shallow Processing

Processing information based on superficial characteristics such as appearance or sound.

Deep Processing

Processing information based on meaning and understanding.

Self-Reference Effect

The tendency for information to be remembered better if it relates personally to oneself.

Consolidation

The biological process in which memories become stable and stored in long-term memory.

Retrieval

The process of locating and bringing stored information into conscious awareness.

Recall

Retrieving information from memory without external cues.

Recognition

Identifying previously learned information when it is presented again.

Relearning

Learning information again that was previously learned.

Encoding Specificity Principle

The idea that memory retrieval is more effective when the conditions during retrieval match those during encoding.

State-Dependent Memory

Improved recall when a person is in the same internal state as when the memory was formed.

Mood-Dependent Memory

The tendency to recall memories that match a person’s current mood.

Ebbinghaus Forgetting Curve

A graph showing that forgetting occurs rapidly after learning and then slows over time.

Encoding Failure

A cause of forgetting in which information never enters long-term memory because it was not properly encoded.

Decay

A cause of forgetting in which memories fade over time if they are not used.

Consolidation Failure

A disruption in the process of converting memories into long-term storage.

Interference

Forgetting that occurs when other information competes with or disrupts memory.

Proactive Interference

When older information interferes with learning new information.

Retroactive Interference

When new information interferes with remembering older information.

Age-Related Memory Loss

Changes in memory ability that occur with normal aging due to biological changes in the brain.