Getting you thinking: Extension: Why do we remember some things and forget others? What processes do you think are involved in remembering what you did yesterday, last week, last month?

Models of Memory The Multi-Store Model (MSM) Cognitive Psychology Memory

Learning objectives By the end of this lesson you will be able: To explain what a ‘model’ is. To identify the 3 different memory stores of the multi-store model. To describe how Atkinson & Shiffin’s model is used to explain how we store memories. To explain how the sensory memory aspect of the MSM works and describe research evidence for it.

What is a ‘model’? Models of memory are based on information- processing systems  computer analogy Researchers into memory have used flow charts to represent their processing theories, called ‘models’ A model therefore describes or explains a theory of how something works

The Multi-store Model Atkinson & Shiffrin (1968) proposed a model to explain how memories are made, stored and retrieved through an information processing structural system, based on many research studies.

Using the diagram on p46 of your text book, complete the boxes on the diagram of the multi-store model on your own handout (leave the capacity, duration and coding boxes empty for now)

Sensory Memory (SM) What is echoic memory? What is iconic memory? What is haptic memory? Sensory memory is the ability to retain impressions of sensory information after the original stimulus has ceased. It refers to items detected by the sensory receptors.

Atkinson and Shiffrin (1968) proposed that there are three separate sensory stores to accommodate different kinds of input: Iconic store is where visual images are kept for a short period. It is important for our experiences as it helps us integrate our visual experience. Echoic store is where auditory senses are kept for a short period. Estimates of the duration of echoic memory range from 250 milliseconds up to a few seconds. Haptic store in sensory memory retains physical senses of touch and internal muscle tensions.

Sensory Memory Summary Sensory memory is where information from the senses is held first and kept for possibly less than a second after the stimulus has gone Capacity: Large – All the sensory information that is being experienced at a given moment Duration: Very short – Possibly only fractions of a second Encoding: In original form

you write your name with a sparkler have just had your picture taken with a flash You will be aware of your sensory memory when…..

Research Study: Sperling (1960) PXMSZHDWGQJFPXMSZHDWGQJF

Learning objectives Are you now able to do the following? Explain what a ‘model’ is. Identify the 3 different memory stores of the multi- store model. Describe how Atkinson & Shiffin’s model is used to explain how we store memories. Explain how the sensory memory aspect of the MSM works and describe research evidence for it.

Homework Due next lesson: 1.Complete the Sperling research handout 2.Complete the encoding, duration and capacity box for sensory memory on the MSM diagram