Introduction to Psychology: Memory, Attention, and Consciousness

These flashcards cover key concepts and terms related to memory, attention, and consciousness as discussed in the psychology lecture.

What is the model for memory based on?

Information-processing model.

What type of memory involves maintenance rehearsal?

Short-term memory.

What does sensory memory do?

Holds sensory input for a brief period of time.

What is the function of selective attention?

To focus on specific information while ignoring other stimuli.

What is working memory?

A system for temporarily holding and manipulating information.

Why do we need executive functions?

To manage and coordinate cognitive processes.

How can long-term memory be subdivided?

Into explicit and implicit memory.

What are encoding strategies?

Techniques used to transform information into a format for storage.

What can lead to errors in retrieval?

Misleading or incomplete information.

What role does memory play in our lives?

It helps us think about the past, make sense of the present, and plan for the future.

What happens to unattended information?

It is quickly lost.

Who conducted the iconic memory study?

George Sperling.

What does the dichotic listening task demonstrate?

Selective attention and the ability to process different streams of information.

What is the cocktail party effect?

The ability to focus on a single conversation in a noisy environment.

What are the components of working memory?

The phonological loop, visuospatial sketchpad, and central executive.

What does the Stroop Task measure?

The ability to inhibit cognitive interference.

What is retrograde amnesia?

Loss of memories acquired before an injury.

What is implicit memory?

Memory that is not consciously recalled, such as skills.

What are examples of procedural memory?

Motor skills like riding a bike or typing.

What is consolidation?

The process of stabilizing a memory after initial acquisition.

What effect does sleep have on memory?

It enhances memory consolidation.

How does the spreading activation model work?

Mental concepts are activated through associations.

What is the difference between episodic and semantic memory?

Episodic memory is about personal experiences, while semantic memory involves general knowledge.

What is the importance of elaboration in memory encoding?

It strengthens memory by linking new information with prior knowledge.

What did Roediger and Karpicke's research suggest about retrieval?

Retrieving information strengthens that memory.

Why is the hippocampus critical for memory?

It plays a key role in forming and retrieving explicit memories.

What is the DRM paradigm?

A method used to study false memories.

How does misinformation affect memory?

It can lead to false recall of events.

What is a mental snapshot in memory retrieval?

A reconstruction of the memory context during recall.

Why is context important for retrieval?

It aids in recalling information based on the environmental cues present during encoding.

What is the role of cues in memory retrieval?

They act as prompts that help access stored information.

What affects exam performance in relation to multitasking?

High levels of multitasking can detrimentally affect learning and exam results.

What does the term 'false recall' refer to?

The phenomenon where individuals remember items that were not presented.

What is the role of visualization in memory?

It enhances recall by creating mental images associated with the information.

What is the effect of rehearsal on memory?

Rehearsal helps keep information in short-term memory and improves retention.

What happens to information in sensory memory?

It is processed automatically and may be swiftly forgotten.

What is the definition of explicit memory?

Memory that can be consciously recalled, such as facts and events.

What is the role of the basal ganglia in memory?

It is involved in procedural memory and habit formation.

What is a significant finding from Phineas Gage's case?

It highlighted the role of the frontal lobes in executive functions.

What signifies deep processing in memory?

Engaging with material through elaboration and meaningful connections.

What type of amnesia affects newly formed memories?

Anterograde amnesia.

What is maintenance rehearsal?

A technique used to maintain information in short-term memory.

What is the purpose of task switching in executive functions?

To efficiently allocate cognitive resources between tasks.

How do neurons communicate during memory consolidation?

Through synaptic connections that strengthen over time.

What factors contribute to effective studying according to the lecture?

Elaboration, the absence of multitasking, and the use of cues.

What does the term 'meta memory' refer to?

Knowledge about one's own memory processes.

How can sleep quality affect memory retention?

Better quality sleep enhances the consolidation and retention of memories.

What was the main takeaway from the lecture regarding studying?

To put away distractions and actively engage with the material to improve memory.