Memory and Its Models

Memory
- Definition: The processes involved in retaining, retrieving, and using information about stimuli, images, events, ideas, and skills after the original information is no longer present.
The importance of memory
- Life is primarily a collection of memories, except for the fleeting present moment that passes quickly.
- Clive Wearing Case Study:
- A notable case of amnesia caused by a herpes infection affecting the central nervous system and hippocampus.
- Effects:
  - Can only recognize his wife.
  - Forgets conversations almost immediately; by the time his wife completes a sentence, he has already forgotten its content.

Modal Model of Memory
- Developed by Atkinson and Shiffrin.
- Focuses on moving from Sensory Memory, to Short-Term Memory, and ultimately to Long-Term Memory.
- Sensory Memory (SM)
- Function: Briefly stores “raw” sensory input.
- Example: A momentary gaze at a slide while taking notes.
- Short-Term Memory (STM)
- Function: Holds small amounts of information (typically 5-9 items) for a brief duration (15-20 seconds).
- Examples:
  - Remembering codes (e.g. an access code or duo codes).
  - Gaining someone’s phone number immediately.
  - Selective attention to pertinent information.

Developed by Baddeley.
Working Memory (WM)
- Definition: A limited capacity system for the temporary storage and manipulation of information necessary for complex tasks such as comprehension, learning, and reasoning.
- Example: Learning to swim requires both understanding and physical application.

Inputs & Outputs
- Input → Sensory Memory → Short-Term Memory
- Output → Long-Term Memory
- Reversal: Controls the phase output, exemplified by actions such as saying goodbye to someone.
- Multiple input arrows indicate a variety of sensory information entering memory (e.g., sounds, sights).
- Example: A waitress taking orders:
  - Input: New people, various sounds.
  - Short Term: Remembering drink orders.
  - Output: Placing drink orders based on memory.
  - Reversal: Repeating orders mentally to retain them.
  - Long-Term Memory: Remembering the repeat drink order on future visits.

Phonological Loop
- Function: Responsible for processing auditory information, essential for understanding spoken language.
Episodic Buffer
- Function: Manages the physical application of tasks, contributing to muscle memory.
Visuospatial Sketchpad
- Function: Helps visualize tasks (e.g., swimming strokes).
Central Executive
- Function: The chief component that integrates all other memory functions.
- Operational role: Oversees the manipulative aspects of working memory.

Short-Term Memory (STM)
- Holds information for a brief duration.
- Considered a single component of memory.
Working Memory (WM)
- Involves not just holding information but also its manipulation during complex cognitive tasks.
- Comprised of multiple components that work interactively.

Clive Wearing Case Study: A notable case of amnesia caused by a herpes infection affecting the central nervous system and hippocampus.
- Effects:
- Can only recognize his wife.
- Forgets conversations almost immediately; by the time his wife completes a sentence, he has already forgotten its content.

Developed by Baddeley.
Working Memory (WM):
- Definition: A limited capacity system for the temporary storage and manipulation of information necessary for complex tasks such as comprehension, learning, and reasoning.
- Example: Learning to swim requires both understanding and physical application.

Central Executive: The chief component that integrates all other memory functions, overseeing manipulative aspects of working memory.
Phonological Loop: Responsible for processing auditory information, essential for understanding spoken language.
Episodic Buffer: Manages the physical application of tasks, contributing to muscle memory.
Visuospatial Sketchpad: Helps visualize tasks (e.g., swimming strokes).