Atkinson Shiffrin Multi-Store Model of Memory

Memory

the process of encoding, storing and retrieving information that has been previously encountered

Atkinson-Shiffrin Multi Store Model of Memory (def)

a model of memory which outlines the three separate stores of memory (sensory, short term, long term) each of which interact through the processes of encoding, storing and retrieving

sensory memory

a store of memory which very briefly stores raw information detected by the senses

Short term memory (STM)

a store of memory which temporarily stores a limited amount of information that is consciously being attended to and actively manipulated

Rehearsal

a controlled process which involves consciously repeating or manipulating information in short term memory

(increases likelihood of encoding)

Encoding

the process of converting information into a usable form which can be manipulated and stored in the brain

Long term memory

a store of memory in which a potentially unlimited amount of information is stored for a relatively permanent amount of time

Storage

the retention of information over time

Retrieval

the process of accessing information that has been stored in long term memory and bringing it into our conscious awareness in short term memory

Atkinson-Shiffrin Multi Store Model of Memory (diagram)

see slides/book

Atkinson-Shiffrin Multi Store Model of Memory Explanatory power - strengths

• distinguishes between the three memory stores

• memory stores have different capacity/duration

• supported by other studies (e.g Serial position effect by Glanzer and Cunitz)

Atkinson-Shiffrin Multi Store Model of Memory Explanatory power - limitations

• may be oversimplified

• ignores factors that aid encoding

• does not account for individual differences

Serial position effect

free recall is better for items at the beginning and end of the list than for items in the middle