2.4: Encoding memories

Automatic processing

Encoding information unconsciously about details like space, time, and frequency as well as well-established information.

Effortful processing

The encoding of information that requires conscious attention, focus, and deliberate effort

Explicit/declaritive memory

Conscious, intentional recall of factual knowledge and personal experiences

Episodic memory

Recall of specific events, situations, and personal experiences (explicit/declaritive memory)

Semantic memory

Recall of facts, concepts, and general knowledge not tied to a specific (explicit/declaritive memory)

Implicit/non-declarative memories

Unconscious or automatic memory that influences our behavior without conscious awareness

Procedural memory

Memory for how to perform tasks, skills, and habits (implicit/non-declarative memories)

Prospective memory

Remembering to perform a planned action in the future (implicit/non-declarative memories)

Sensory memory

Shortest-term memory, holding sensory information for a fraction of a second after the stimulus ends (implicit/non-declarative memories)

Mnemonic devices

Technique used to improve memory by creating a pattern or association (story, names, etc.)

Method of loci

Type of mnemonic device where you associate items to be remembered with specific locations on a familiar mental route

Chunking

Grouping small pieces of information into larger, more meaningful units

Hierarchies/categories

Organizing information into a system of nested categories

Spacing effect

Spreading out learning sessions over time rather than cramming

Massed practice

Psych term for cramming

Autobiographical memory

Memories of personal events and experiences