1. Chapter 8 - Information Processing and Memory

2. I. Learning Curves
A gradual upward slope representing increased retention of material as a result of learning
Affected by:
chemicals
attention
emotions

3. II.Transfer of Training
Learning is carried over from one task to another based on similarities between tasks
Positive Transfer - transfer of learning resulting from similarities between 2 tasks
Negative Transfer - interference with learning that results from differences between 2 otherwise similar tasks

5. III. Information Processing
Schema – An organized and systematic approach to answering questions and solving problems
Constructive Processing – reconstructing the memory…sometimes adding new details in the process

6. IV. Special Learning Processes
Elaboration – attaching a maximum # of associations to an item to be learned so that it can be learned more easily.
Mnemonic Devices – unusual associations made to aid memory

7. Special Learning cont’d…
Principle Learning – Overall view of the material to be learned is developed so that material is better organized.

8. Special Learning cont’d
Chunking – Putting items into clusters so that items are learned in groups rather than separately.

9. V. Principles of Forgetting
Forgetting Curve – graphic representation of the rate and amount of forgetting that occurs.
Overlearning

10. Forgetting cont’d…
Recall vs. Recognition
Recall – ability to bring back and integrate many specific details (essay tests)
Recognition – ability to pick correctly from a list of choices (matching test)

11. Forgetting cont’d
Interference Theory – We forget because old and new material conflict with one another.

12. VI. Mechanisms of Memory
Encoding – Some kind of chemical code is used to store memories

13. Mechanisms of Memory cont’d…
Theories of memory –
Synapse changes shape when we learn something
Synapse actually GROW when a pattern is established

14. VII. Short v. Long Term Memory
Short Term Memory (STM) – Memory system that retains info for a few seconds to a few minutes.

15. Short v Long cont’d…
Long Term Memory – (LTM) Memory system that can last for hours, days,lifetime.

16. Short/Long cont’d…
Consolidation – process by which a memory solidifies over time, eventually becoming permanent.

17. Short/Long cont’d… Sensory Memory System –
Iconic – visual impulse. We make a decision to send it to the STM or forget it.
Acoustic – auditory “ “ “

18. VIII. Special Issues in Memory
Photographic Memory –
Flashbulb Memory –

20. Eyewitness Memory