Types of Retrieval

Recognition

• Identifying previous learning

• Stays stable with age

• Like a multiple choice question

  • The answer is there fore, you just need to identify which one is right

• This is the easier method of retrieval because you have some framework to help you

Recall

• ‘Pulling out’ previous learning

  • No supplemental material to help

• Ability declines with age

• Like a free response question

Relearning

• Improved retrieval with repeated learning

• Forges stronger connections as the learning is constantly being maintained

Overlearning

• Practice after learning a skill to make it more resilient to forgetting

• Making sure the memory is there, then strengthening it more

• Like getting a term right when studying, then proceeding to review that term for 5 minutes

Retrieval Cues

• These serve as connection points to access a memory

• Such as smells, sounds, or visuals

Priming

• Activation of memory associations in anticipation of something being retrieved

• Can sometimes occur unconsciously

• Previous exposure may influence future thoughts and behavior

Context-Dependent Memory

• Revisiting the location of an experience as the cue

• The context may not necessarily be a location

State-Dependent Memory

• Experiencing something in one state will be remembered better the next time we are in that state

• Often relates to our emotions during that time

  • Mood-congruent memory

  • Emotion is serves as a cue for retrieval

• Can also be a state like injury or sickness