In Module 31, we learn about the three step memory process and how memories are studied and encoded. This module introduces the concept of measuring retention through recall, recognition, and relearning. Hermann Ebbinghaus's pioneering memory studies, including the development of the forgetting curve, are also discussed in this section.
Three Step Memory Process
The three step memory process, as proposed by Richard Atkinson and Richard Shiffrin, consists of encoding, storage, and retrieval. This model helps us understand how information from the environment is processed through sensory memory, short-term memory (STM), and long-term memory (LTM).
Sensory Memory
Sensory memory has a large capacity and contains sensory information but has a very brief retention period, lasting only a fraction of a second for visual stimuli. It serves as the initial stage in the memory process by briefly holding onto sensory information before it is transferred to short-term memory.
Short-Term Memory
Short-term memory has a limited capacity and is involved in the conscious processing of information. It is where information is briefly stored and is also responsible for the maintenance rehearsal of important or novel information. If not rehearsed, verbal information may be quickly forgotten in short-term memory.
Long-Term Memory
Long-term memory has an unlimited capacity and is thought to store information permanently. Information is organized and indexed in long-term memory, making it available for retrieval when needed.
Encoding Memories
Alan Baddeley's model of working memory, which includes auditory rehearsal and the central executive, is introduced here. Effortful processing and explicit memories, as well as automatic processing and implicit memories, are discussed as part of the encoding process.
Effortful Vs Automatic Processing
Effortful processing involves conscious and deliberate encoding of explicit memories, while automatic processing occurs without conscious awareness and results in implicit memories. The dual-track memory approach offers insight into how different types of memories are processed.
In psychology, the three-step memory process refers to the stages of memory formation proposed by Richard Atkinson and Richard Shiffrin. This model helps us understand how information is encoded, stored, and retrieved.
Sensory Memory
Sensory memory briefly retains sensory information, such as visual and auditory stimuli, for a very short period. It serves as the initial stage in the memory process and feeds information to the active working memory.
Short-Term Memory
Short-term memory has a limited capacity and is involved in conscious processing of information. Without rehearsal, verbal information may be quickly forgotten in short-term memory, highlighting the importance of effortful processing strategies.
Long-Term Memory
Long-term memory has an unlimited capacity and is thought to store information permanently. Information is organized and indexed in long-term memory, making it available for retrieval when needed.
Effortful processing involves conscious and deliberate encoding of explicit memories, while automatic processing occurs without conscious awareness and results in implicit memories. The dual-track memory approach offers insight into how different types of memories are processed.
Implicit and Procedural Memories
Implicit memories include procedural memory for automatic skills and classically conditioned associations, which are processed without conscious effort. It also involves automatic processing of information about space, time, and frequency without conscious awareness.
Sensory memory briefly retains visual and auditory stimuli, while short-term memory has a limited capacity and requires effortful processing strategies such as chunking and mnemonics to improve retention.
Effortful Processing Strategies
Chunking enables us to recall information more easily by organizing it into manageable units, while mnemonics are memory aids that help encode and retrieve information more effectively.
In conclusion, understanding the three-step memory process and the distinctions between effortful and automatic processing provides valuable insights into how memories are studied and encoded. This knowledge contributes to our understanding of the functioning of memory in psychology.
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