Encoding and Decoding models.docx - Encoding and Decoding...

Encoding and Decoding Models
Memory has the ability to encode , store and recall information. Memories give an organism the
capability to learn and adapt from previous experiences as well as build relationships. Encoding
allows the perceived item of use or interest to be converted into a construct that can be stored
within the brain and recalled later from short term or long term memory. Working memory stores
information for immediate use or manipulation. Long term memory stores permanently
information for use or manipulation in the longer term.
Types
Visual, acoustic, and semantic encodings are the most intensively used. Other encodings are also
used.
Visual encoding
Visual encoding is the process of encoding images and visual sensory information. Visual
sensory information is temporarily stored within our i conic memory and working memory before
being encoded into permanent long-term storage. Baddeley’s model of working memory states
that visual information is stored in the visuo-spatial sketchpad.
The amygdala is a complex structure that has an important role in visual encoding. It accepts
visual input in addition to input from other systems and encodes the positive or negative values
of conditioned stimuli.
Acoustic encoding
Acoustic encoding is the processing and encoding of sound, words, and all other auditory input
for storage and later retrieval. According to Baddeley, processing of auditory information is
aided by the concept of the phonological loop, which allows input within our echoic memory to
be sub vocally rehearsed in order to facilitate remembering.
Studies indicate that lexical, semantic and phonological factors interact in verbal working
memory. The phonological similarity effect (PSE), is modified by word concreteness. This
emphasizes that verbal working memory performance cannot exclusively be attributed to
phonological or acoustic representation but also includes an interaction of linguistic
representation. What remains to be seen is whether linguistic representation is expressed at the
time of recall or whether they participate in a more fundamental role in encoding and
preservation.
Other senses
Tactile encoding is the processing and encoding of how something feels, normally through touch.
Neurons in the primary somatosensory cortex (S1) react to vibrotactile stimuli by activating in
synchronisation with each series of vibrations. Odors and tastes may also lead to encode.

In general encoding for short-term storage (STS) in the brain relies primarily on acoustic rather
than semantic encoding.
Semantic encoding
Semantic encoding is the processing and encoding of sensory input that has particular meaning
or can be applied to a context. Various strategies can be applied such as chunking and
mnemonics to aid in encoding, and in some cases, allow deep processing, and optimizing
retrieval.