2. Multi store model

The Multi-Store Model Overview

Atkinson and Shiffrin Model (1968)

  • Information passes through three stores: Sensory, Short-term, and Long-term.

  • Attention is necessary for transfer between stores.

  • Forgetting can occur through decay or interference.

Characteristics of Each Store

  1. Sensory Store: Holds information for less than one second.

  2. Short-term Store: Holds about seven items for 15-30 seconds without rehearsal.

  3. Long-term Store: Indefinite duration and unlimited capacity; information is retained post-rehearsal.

Memory Store Distinctions

  • Coding: Sensory (sensory form), STM (acoustic), LTM (semantic).

  • Capacity: Sensory (limited), STM (7 items), LTM (unlimited).

Evaluating the Multi-Store Model

Strengths

  • Supported by extensive research.

  • Distinguishes between different memory types and their functions.

Weaknesses

  • Too simplistic; ignores complexity of memory processes.

  • Does not account for elaborative rehearsal or the diversity of long-term memory.

Case Study: Henry Molaison (H.M.)

Overview

  • Background: Underwent surgery in 1953 affecting his hippocampus and amygdala.

  • Findings:

    • Impaired episodic memory; inability to form new episodic memories.

    • Preserved procedural memory; could learn new motor skills.

    • Intact semantic memory; retained pre-surgery knowledge.

Conclusion

  • H.M.'s case illustrates distinct memory types and the role of specific brain regions in memory storage.

Recap Questions

  1. What are the three stores in the multi-store model of memory? (3 marks)

  2. What must we do to information for it to transfer from STM to LTM? (1 mark)

  3. Who proposed the multi-store model? (1 mark)

Exam Preparation

Outline & Evaluate Task

  • Key points to note for responses during exams about the multi-store model and its evaluation techniques.

  • Practice outlining the model and providing evidence for its evaluation as part of exam preparation.