KKDP 4: Memory, Atkinson-Shiffrin model, STM,LTM

Memory

Process of memory

Definition: The process of encoding, storing and retrieving information that has been previously encountered

Key terms for the Process of memory:

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

Storage: the retention of information over time

Retrieving: the process of accessing information that has been stored in LTM and bringing it back into our conscious awareness

Atkinson-Shiffrin Model of Memory

Atiknsons model of memory

  • Sensory,STM & LTM are Memory stores

  • Memory processes: encoding, storage, retrieval, attention, consolidation and rehearsal

Sensory Memory

Definition: a memory store that very briefly stores raw information detected by the senses

Capacity: Unlimited

Duration: 0.2-4 seconds

only sensory memory information that is attended to is transferred to short-term memory for processing

Short Term Memory (STM)

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

Capacity: limited capacity of 5-9 items

Duration: 18-30 seconds for most people, can start to fade between 18-20 seconds

  • Information comes form sensory memory and long term memory

  • info can be pushed out by new information

  • Repetition can help encode info from STM into LTM

  • Also known as the working memory

Long Term Memory (LTM)

Definition: A store ofof memory in which potentially an unlimited ammount of info is stored for a relatively permanent ammount of time

  • Contains all the info you retain from past events, as well as knowledge and facts

  • not in conscious awareness

  • may not be able to retrive info in LTM as may be unaware of how to retrive it, not prompted by the right retrieval cues

S & W of Atkinson

Strengths:

  • distinguishes between different memory stores

  • outlines that each memory store has a different capacity and duration

  • provides good understanding of the structure and process of memory

  • helps explain why amnesia patients may have difficulty retrieving memories from LTM or encoding information from STM to LTM

Weaknesses:

  • may be oversimplified

  • stm may be more complex than suggested

  • ignores factors such as motivation and strategy

  • initially suggested that rehearsal was required for information to be transferred to LTM, which has been proven false

  • does not account for individual differences in memory processes, storage duration, and capacity