Memory: Models and Research Methods

Information Processing Theory

A framework explaining how the mind processes information.

Memory

The system used to encode, store, and retrieve information.

4 stages of Information Processing:

1. Encoding

2. Storage

3. Retrieval

4. Transformation

Encoding

Assigning meaning to incoming information.

Storage

Holding information temporarily in short-term memory.

Retrieval

Accessing stored information for current tasks.

Transformation

Converting information into a more useful form.

Types of Forgetting:

• Displacement

• Decay

• Interference

• Retrieval failure

Displacement

Forgetting due to short-term memory capacity limits.

Decay

Weakening of memories over time if not reinforced.

Interference

Difficulty in remembering due to similar information.

Retrieval failure

Inability to access stored information without cues.

Frontal lobe

Responsible for cognitive functions like decision-making.

Parietal lobe

Processes sensory information and spatial awareness.

Occipital lobe

Processes visual information.

Cerebellum

Controls motor functions and balance.

 cerebral cortex

folded outer layers of the cerebrum known as

motor area

 movement using motor neurons to send signals to our muscles is known as

somatosensory area

 responsible for touch is known as .

visual cortex

receives information from both the eyes through the optic

auditory cortex

serves the same job for hearing.

angular gyrus

is located at the back of the parietal lobe and receives information about written language from the visual cortex and interprets it as being similar to speech. 

Atkinson and Shiffrin’s Memory Model

theoretical model for the flow of information through the human information processor.

Sensory Store

Initial repository of information.

Short-Term Store

Holds memories briefly.

Long-Term Store

Stores memories for extended periods.

Permastore

Very long-term storage of information.

Reconstructive Memory

Memories are reconstructed based on schemas and expectations.

schema

is a pre-existing mental representation or expectation

Levelling

downplaying or removing details from memory.

Sharpening

 adding to or exaggerating details in our memory.

Process of Confabulation

Unconsciously filling memory gaps with distorted information.

Provoked confabulation

occurs when someone creates an untrue story in response to a specific question. 

Spontaneous confabulation

someone tells a fabricated story without any obvious motivation or provocation.

Recognition

Identifying previously exposed items.

Recall

Producing items from memory.

Serial Recall

 recall items in the exact order

free recall

 recall items in any order

Cued recall

during recall, you are cued with only one member of each pair and are asked to recall each mate.

Wechsler Memory Scale

Neuropsychological test measuring memory functions.

Neuropsychological Tests

Assess brain health's impact on thinking skills and behavior.

Memory test

 Repeat a list of words, sentences, or numbers.

Cognition test

Explain how two items are like. For instance, if you see a picture of a dog and a cat, you might answer that they’re both animals or that they are both pets.

Visualization

Creating mental images to aid in remembering information, like associating a person's name with an object or image.

Association

Linking new information to existing memories or knowledge, such as connecting a new person's name with someone already known.

Elaboration

Adding meaning or context to new information to enhance memory retention, like relating new information to personal experiences or stories.

Mnemonic Devices

Techniques like acronyms or rhymes used to aid memory retention.

Active Recall

Practicing recalling information actively by testing oneself on the material to be remembered.

Lifestyle Factors

Elements like sufficient sleep, regular physical activity, and stress management that can enhance memory function.

Memory Disorders

Conditions affecting memory function that may require a combination of memory improvement strategies, medication, or therapy for treatment.