Information Processing Theory
A framework explaining how the mind processes information.
Memory
The system used to encode, store, and retrieve information.
4 stages of Information Processing
Encoding
Storage
Retrieval
Transformation
Encoding
Assigning meaning to incoming information.
Storage
Holding information temporarily in short-term memory.
Retrieval
Accessing stored information for current tasks.
Transformation
Converting information into a more useful form.
Types of Forgetting
Displacement
Decay
Interference
Retrieval failure
Displacement
Forgetting due to short-term memory capacity limits.
Decay
Weakening of memories over time if not reinforced.
Interference
Difficulty in remembering due to similar information.
Retrieval failure
Inability to access stored information without cues.
Frontal lobe
Responsible for cognitive functions like decision-making.
Parietal lobe
Processes sensory information and spatial awareness.
Occipital lobe
Processes visual information.
Cerebellum
Controls motor functions and balance.
Cerebral cortex
folded outer layers of the cerebrum known as
Motor area
movement using motor neurons to send signals to our muscles is known as
Somatosensory area
responsible for touch is known as
Visual cortex
receives information from both the eyes through the optic
Auditory cortex
serves the same job for hearing.
Angular gyrus
is located at the back of the parietal lobe and receives information about written language from the visual cortex and interprets it as being similar to speech.
Atkinson and Shiffrin’s Memory Model
theoretical model for the flow of information through the human information processor.
Sensory Store
Initial repository of information.
Short-Term Store
Holds memories briefly.
Long-Term Store
Stores memories for extended periods.
Permastore
Very long-term storage of information.
Reconstructive Memory
Memories are reconstructed based on schemas and expectations.
Schema
is a pre-existing mental representation or expectation
Levelling
downplaying or removing details from memory.
Sharpening
adding to or exaggerating details in our memory.
Process of Confabulation
Unconsciously filling memory gaps with distorted information.
Provoked confabulation
occurs when someone creates an untrue story in response to a specific question.
Spontaneous confabulation
someone tells a fabricated story without any obvious motivation or provocation.
Recognition
Identifying previously exposed items.
Recall
Producing items from memory.
Serial Recall
recall items in the exact order
Free recall
recall items in any order
Cued recall
during recall, you are cued with only one member of each pair and are asked to recall each mate.
Wechsler Memory Scale
Neuropsychological test measuring memory functions.
Neuropsychological Tests
Assess brain health's impact on thinking skills and behavior.
Memory test
Repeat a list of words, sentences, or numbers.
Cognition test
Explain how two items are like. For instance, if you see a picture of a dog and a cat, you might answer that they’re both animals or that they are both pets.
Visualization
Creating mental images to aid in remembering information, like associating a person's name with an object or image.
Association
Linking new information to existing memories or knowledge, such as connecting a new person's name with someone already known.
Elaboration
Adding meaning or context to new information to enhance memory retention, like relating new information to personal experiences or stories.
Mnemonic Devices
Techniques like acronyms or rhymes used to aid memory retention.
Active Recall
Practicing recalling information actively by testing oneself on the material to be remembered.
Lifestyle Factors
Elements like sufficient sleep, regular physical activity, and stress management that can enhance memory function.
Memory Disorders
Conditions affecting memory function that may require a combination of memory improvement strategies, medication, or therapy for treatment.