Memory

The persistence of learning over time. Nondeclarative memory –Perceptual –Procedural –Stimulus-response Declarative memory –Episodic –Semantic

Memory Encoding Storage Retrieval

3-stage memory model Sensory memory - limited sensory record Short-term memory - active encoding Long-term memory - encoded and stored

Updates to the 3 stage model Some information is automatically encoded Working memory - instead of short-term memory –Processes new information –Utilizes and modifies previously stored memories –“Active” component of memory

Encoding Processing information into memory How we encode –Automatic encoding Space Time Frequency –Effortful encoding Rehearsal

Ebbinghaus The amount of information remembered depends on the amount of time spent learning

Effects on encoding Serial position effect –Primacy –Recency Spacing effect

Encoding What we encode –Semantic encoding –Visual encoding –Organization Chunking Hierarchies

Mnemonic devices Cues to prompt memories –Visual –Acoustic –Organizational

Storage Retention of memories in the brain –Sensory memory –Working memory –Long-term memory

Sensory memory Trace of sensory information –Remains in the sensory system momentarily –May be encoded into a short-term memory Iconic memories - visual –½ second –Sperling Echoic memories - auditory –3-4 seconds

Sperling’s studies of sensory memory Sensory memory capacity is large, but limited by time The longer the delay, the greater the memory loss.

Working memory The mid-stage of memory storage –Short-term memories + recalled long-term memories –We are consciously aware of our memories and can work with them at this stage Sensory memories  short-term memories –Incoming memories must be rehearsed to be maintained

Working memory Working memory has a limited capacity –7 +/- 2 pieces of information –20 seconds Capacity extended by –Chunking –Rehearsal

Long-term memory Encoded and stored memories Essentially unlimited capacity

Storing memories Formation of long-term memories relies on neural changes –Long-term potentiation –Not an exact replica –Not located in one spot in the brain –Brain damage has varying impact, due to the nature of memory storage

Memory and stress High stress and strong emotions fuel brain activity Flashbulb memories –Reliable –Not completely infallible

Where are memories made?