Understanding Memory: Encoding, Storage, and Retrieval

1. Memory

2. 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

3. Encoding • The role of attention

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

5. 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

6. Storage:Short-Term Memory • 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

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

9. 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

10. 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