Memory

Memory

Definition of Memory

• Memory: The ability to store and retrieve information over time.

Measures of Memory

• Recall: Remembering information without prompts.

• Recognition: Identifying previously learned information.

• Relearning: Learning more quickly when practiced again.

Ebbinghaus’s Retention Curve

• More practice results in quicker relearning.

Forgetting Curve for Spanish

• Retention over time:

  • 0 years: 100%

  • 1 year: 90%

  • 3 years: 80%

  • 5 years: 70%

  • 10 years: 60%

  • 49 years: 10%

Metaphors for Memory

• Various comparisons to describe memory:

  • Wax Tablet: Memory as a blank surface.

  • Computer Program: Processes and stores information.

The Modal Model of Memory

• Stages:

  • Sensory Memory: Brief sensory input.

  • Short-term Memory: Holds a few items briefly.

  • Long-term Memory: Info stored for retrieval later.

Working Memory

• Focus on actively processing information.

Implicit and Explicit Memory

• Implicit Memory: Unconscious skills (e.g., riding a bike).

• Explicit Memory: Facts and experiences that can be consciously recalled.

Types of Amnesia

• Retrograde Amnesia: Loss of past memories.

• Anterograde Amnesia: Difficulty forming new memories.

When Do We Forget?

• Forgetting can happen at any memory stage.

Encoding and Retrieval Failures

• Encoding Failure: Information doesn’t enter memory.

• Retrieval Failure: Difficulty accessing stored info.

Interference Types

• Proactive Interference: Old memories block new ones.

• Retroactive Interference: New memories block old ones.

False Memory

• Misinformation can alter what we remember.

Improving Memory Techniques

• Mnemonics: Techniques to aid memory.

• Peg Word System: Associating words with numbers.

• Self-Reference Effect: Better recall when relating info to oneself.

• Testing Effect: Testing improves retention.

• Spacing Effect: Spaced study is more effective than cramming.