Chapter 7
MEMORY
Definition of Memory
An Internal Record or Representation of
Some Prior Event or Experience
Definition of Constructive
Process
Organizing and shaping of information
during processing, storage, and retrieval
of memories.
Memory is a Constructive Process
Exercise
Three to Five volunteers to leave the
classroom. Retelling a story.
Keep track of the errors made.
What does this exercise reveal about
the operation of the memory system.
Four Models of Memory
Information Processing Model
Parallel Distributed Processing Model
Levels of Processing Approach
Traditional Three-Stage Memory Model
Information Processing Approach
Memory is a process, analogous to a
computer, where information goes
through three basic processes –
encoding, storage, and retrieval.
Encoding
– Translating information into
neural codes (language) – i.e. sensory
(sound/visual image) into language.
Storage
– Retaining neurally coded
information over time.
Retrieval
– Recovering information from
memory storage.
Levels of Processing
Approach
Memory depends on the degree or depth
of mental processing occurring when
material is initially encountered.
Shallow processing leads to little
memory, whereas deeper processing
adds meaning and greater memory.
Traditional Three-Stage Memory Model
Memory requires three different storage boxes
or stages to hold and process information for
various lengths of time. Sensory memory
holds information for exceedingly short
intervals, short-term memory retains
information for approximately 30 seconds or
less (unless renewed), and long-term memory
provides relatively permanent storage.
Sensory Memory
First Stage of Memory
What we see, hear, touch, taste, and
smell first enters our
sensory memory.
