Key Area 3.3 – Memory Unit 3 Neurobiology and Immunology Higher Human Biology for CfE Miss Aitken

Memory Memories include experiences which have happened in the past, thoughts had in the past and knowledge which has been previously gained. All information passes through the sensory organs, through sensory memory and enters the short term memory (STM). The sensory memory retains all the visual and auditory input received, but only for a few seconds. Only some images and sounds are encoded into the short term memory. The STM can be maintained by rehearsal.

Memory Items in the short term memory ‘decay’ quickly and are displaced by new items entering. The short term memory has a limited span.

Chunking Chunking improves short term memory by grouping items together to make a single item. Phone numbers: 01419552393 0141 955 2393

Serial Position Effect The serial position effect influences groups of items entering the STM. Those items in the group that come first (primacy) and last (recency) are better recalled than the intermediate items. If individuals are presented with a sequence of words and then asked to recall them, their performance is affected by the SPE.

Long Term Memory Transfer of items to the long-term memory can be brought about by: Rehearsal – repeating information frequently Organisation – putting information into categories and sub-categories Elaboration – building more detail into the information Retrieval is the recall of information when required

Encoding Information to be added to memory has to be encoded. Encoding is where nerve signals are converted into a form that can be interpreted by the brain. Shallow encoding uses methods like rehearsal Deep encoding uses methods like elaboration

Contextual Cues A contextual cue is used to help get information from the brain It will help to “jog the memory” Photographs or significant objects can bring memories back Often used by police or psychiatrists Now copy the table from bottom of HTP page 146