Memory and Information Processing

Primary Components of Memory:

Encoding: This is the first step of acquiring information. It entails changing the format of information so it can be stored in memory. Two types of encoding are acoustic (sound) and semantic (meaning).
Storage: The second step involves holding the acquired information in the memory. Types of memory storage include sensory, short term and long term.
Retrieval: The third and final step, where information is brought back from storage when it’s needed. Retrieval can be recognised, recalled or relearned.

Stages of Memory:

Sensory Memory: The brief storage of sensory information, typically lasting less than a second for haptic memory (touch), a few seconds for echoic memory (sound), and less than half a second for iconic memory (visual).
Short Term Memory (STM): Also known as working memory. Limited capacity (about seven items) and duration (about 20 to 30 seconds). Rehearsal can help keep items in short term memory for longer.
Long Term Memory (LTM): Unlimited storage capacity and can hold information indefinitely. Information is transferred from short term memory to long term memory through rehearsal and meaningful associations.

Memory Techniques:

Rehearsal: Repetition of information to keep it in short-term memory for longer, eventually helping in transfer to long-term memory.
Chunking: Grouping disparate individual elements into larger wholes to help remember and process information.
Mnemonics: Techniques designed to enhance memory, such as forming vivid mental images, creating associations, or using acronyms.
Elaborative Rehearsal: Involves thinking about the meaning of the information and making connections to other information already in memory.

Factors Influencing Memory:

Interference: New information replaces old information in short term memory; can also occur in long term memory when similar pieces of information conflict.
Context: Information is easier to remember if learning and recall contexts are similar.
State-Dependent Learning: Information is easier to recall when the individual is in the same state of mind or mood as when the information was learned.
Serial Position Effect: Tendency to better remember items at the beginning and end of a list.
Motivation and Attention: Essential for learning and memory. Attention determines what information is encoded, and motivation impacts level of rehearsal and likelihood of retrieval.