Memory as an Active Process

Memory is an active process, it’s more than just storing and recalling information. It involves encoding, storing, retaining, and subsequently recalling information and past experiences.
The memory process begins with “encoding” where information is transformed into a form that can be processed and stored.
Encoding can be done in three main ways: visually (picture), acoustically (sound) and semantically (meaning).
After encoding, information is “stored” in the memory. Storage of information involves maintaining information over time.
The memory storage system is divided into three main components: sensory memory, short-term memory and long-term memory. Each has its own duration, capacity, and way of encoding information.
The Short-term memory (STM) is the active memory system that contains the information currently in use. It has a limited capacity and can store 7 +/- 2 pieces of information.
The Long-term memory (LTM) is the memory system responsible for storing information for longer periods of time. It has an unlimited capacity and can store information for a lifetime.
Retrieval or “recall” is the process of bringing stored memories into conscious thought. This could be in the form of recognition, recall, or relearning.
Memories are not always accurate, and they can be distorted or forgotten. Several factors can influence memory accuracy, like the context in which the information is encoded and retrieved.
The concept of ‘forgetting’ refers to the apparent loss of information already encoded and stored in an individual’s long term memory.
Interference and decay are two main theories to explain forgetting. Interference theory explains forgetting as the disruption of the memory due to the presence of other information. Decay theory refers to the idea that memories fade over time if they are not reinforced or recalled.
Lastly, memory can also be reconstructed. Bartlett proposed that our memory is not an exact replica of past events, but a reconstruction based on our schema, or prior knowledge and expectations.