7 Memory Revised by Pauline Davey Zeece, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Chapter Overview Studying memory Building memories: Encoding Memory storage Retrieval: Getting information out Forgetting Memory construction errors Improving memory Memory Persistence of learning over time through the encoding, storage, and retrieval of information Information-processing model Compares human memory to a computer’s operation 4 Stages in Information-Processing Model Encoding Getting information into the memory system Storage Retaining encoded information over time Retrieval Getting information out of memory storage Information-Processing Model: Stages in Forming Memories Recording to-be-remembered information as a fleeting sensory memory Processing information into short-term memory, where it is encoded through rehearsal Moving information into long-term memory for later retrieval Sensory memory: Immediate and very brief recording of sensory information in the memory system Short-term memory: Activated memory that holds a few items briefly before the information is stored or forgotten Long-term memory: Relatively permanent and limitless storehouse of the memory system Includes knowledge, skills, and experiences 6 Modified Three-Stage Processing Model of Memory Atkinson and Shiffrin’s classic three-step model helps us to think about how memories are processed, but today’s researchers recognize other ways long-term memories form. For example, some information slips into long-term memory via a “back door,” without our consciously attending to it (automatic processing). And so much active processing occurs in the short-term memory stage that many now prefer to call that stage working memory. 7 Working Memory Newer understanding of short-term memory Includes the conscious and active processing of: Incoming information Information retrieved from long-term memory Working memory is more efficient when individuals focus on one task at a time, without distractions. 8 Want to try to see how good your working memory is? In Class Demonstration Two-Track Memory System Implicit (nondeclarative) memory Retention of learned skills, or classically conditioned associations, without conscious awareness Formed via automatic processing Explicit (declarative) memory Retention of facts and personal events that can be consciously retrieved Formed via effortful processing Building Memories Automatic processing and implicit memories Implicit memories include automatic skills and classically conditioned associations. Effortful processing and explicit memories Explicit memories become automatic with experience and practice. This Photo by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY. Your two-track mind processes information efficiently via parallel processing, which involves processing of many aspects of a problem at the same time. This method is the brain’s natural mode of information processing for many functions. 13 Sensory.