Module 24: Studying and Encoding Memories

Memory

The persistence of learning over time through the encoding, storage, and retrieval of information

Super-Recognizers

Display extraordinary recognition ability

Recall, recognition, relearning

3 recognition measures

Recall

A measure of memory in which the person must retrieve information learned earlier

Recognition

A measure of memory in which the person identifies items previously learned

Relearning

A measure of memory in which the person identifies items previously learned

Relearning

A measure of memory that assesses the amount of time saved when learning material again

Encoding

The process of getting information into the memory system

Storage

The process of retaining encoded information over time

Retrieval

The process of getting information out of memory storage

Parallel Processing

Processing multiple aspects of a stimulus or problem simultaneously

Sensory Memory

The first part of memory- the immediate, very brief recording of sensory information in the memory system, feeds active working memory (unlimited capacity)

Short Term Memory

2nd part of memory, briefly activated memory of a few items that is later stored or forgotten

Working Memory

Newer understanding of short-term memory by Alan Badeley- conscious, active processing of both incoming sensory information and information retrieved from long-term memory (little capacity, brief duration)

Explicit Memory

Retention of facts and experiences that w can consciously know and “declare” (AKA declarative memory)

Effortful Processing

Encoding of explicit memories that requires attention and conscious effort

Automatic Processing

Unconscious encoding of incidental information like space, time, frequency, and of familiar or well learned information (sounds, smells, words)

Implicit Memory

Retention of learned skills or classically conditioned associations that are not conscious recollection (AKA non-declarative memory)

Iconic Memory

From researcher George Sperling, a momentary sensory memory of visual stimuli (photographic or picture image memory lasting no more than a few tenths of a second)

Echoic Capacity

A momentary sensory memory of auditory stimuli (if attention is elsewhere, sounds and words can still be recalled within 3 or 4 seconds)

Chunking

Organizing items into manageable units, often occurs automatically

Mnemonics

Memory aids, especially techniques that use vivid imagery and organizational devices

Hierarchies

A few broad concepts divided into narrower concepts

Spacing Effect

The tendency for distributed study or practice to yield better long retention than through massed study or practice

Testing Effect

Enhanced memory after retrieving, rather than simply rereading information (AKA retrieval practice of test-enhanced learning)

Shallow Processing

Encoding on a basic level, based on the structure or appearance of words

Deep Processing

Encoding semantically, or based on the meaning of the words (tends to yield to the best retention

Self-Reference Effect

The strong tendency to remember information better when it's connected to oneself

Long-Term Memory

The relatively permanent and limitless archive of the memory system (knowledge, skills, experience)

Primacy Effect

Individuals best remember the first items in a series rather than the middle items

Recency Effect

The tendency to recall the most recently presented items in a list more easily