Memory

Memory: Overview Memory: Active system that receives, stores, organizes, alters, and recovers (retrieves) information Encoding –Converting information into a useable form Storage –Holding this information in memory for later use Retrieval –Taking memories out of storage

Encoding The role of attention

Storage Computer analogy Information-processing theories –Subdivide memory into 3 different stores Sensory, Short-term, Long-term

Storage: Sensory Memory Storing an exact copy of incoming information for a fraction of a second; the first stage of memory –Icon: A fleeting mental image or visual representation –Echo: After a sound is heard, a brief continuation of the sound in the auditory system

Temporary storage of recent events –Chunking – grouping familiar stimuli for storage as a single unit –Rehearsal – the process of repetitively verbalizing or thinking about the information Storage: Short-Term Memory

Relatively permanently storage based upon meaning and importance Storage: Long-Term Memory

Eidetic Imagery (Somewhat Like Photographic Memory) Occurs when a person (usually a child) has visual images clear enough to be scanned or retained for at least 30 seconds Usually projected onto a “plain” surface, like a blank piece of paper Usually disappears during adolescence and is rare by adulthood

Retrieval Methods of Retrieval –Free Recall – asked to say what you remember –Cued Recall – given significant hints –Recognition – choose from among several items –Savings – asked to re-learn something Reconstructing Events –Reconstruction Process – rely upon routine and expectations –Hindsight Bias – mold our recollection to fit past events –Misinformation Effect – other people distort your memories –False memories – controversy over authenticity –Savings – asked to re-learn something