Processes of Memory: Encoding (Input) Storage and Retrieval (Output)

“Encoding (Input)”: This process involves receiving, processing, and combining information. The brain along with the five senses, receives data from the outside and converts it into a form that it can understand and store.
Two main forms of Encoding: Acoustic (sound) and Visual (images). Some remember events better if they see them, while others remember better if they hear about them.
Semantic encoding, which is encoding of meaning and understanding, is the third and most useful kind of encoding, which involves a deeper level of processing.
“Storage”: After encoding, the information is then stored in the memory system. The model of memory storage defines three distinct types: Sensory memory, short-term memory and long-term memory.
Sensory memory holds information from the five senses for a very brief period, just long enough for it to be recognised.
Short-term memory (STM) is also called working memory because it’s where we hold and manipulate information while we’re using it. STM has a limited capacity and can only last about 20-30 seconds without rehearsal.
Long-term memory (LTM) can store much larger quantities of information for potentially unlimited duration.
“Retrieval (Output)”: The final phase of memory process which involves bringing stored information back into consciousness. This is usually done in response to some cue or trigger.
Recognition and recall are two ways that information is retrieved from memory. Recognition is identifying something you’ve previously experienced, while recall involves reconstructing memory often in response to a question.
Retrieval may fail due to ineffective or inadequate cues, leading to phenomena called ‘forgetting’.
Factors affecting retrieval include time, context, state-dependent memory (how physical or mental state can affect remembering) and proactive and retroactive interference (where old memories interfere with new ones, and vice versa).
Importance of revision and practise in strengthening memory (‘practise makes perfect’). Repeated exposure helps to move information from short-term to long-term memory, a process known as ‘consolidation’.
It’s important to vary study techniques because relying on one method may lead to memory distortion or ‘cues’ from that method becoming the only way to retrieve the information.

Remember, understanding these concepts is vital to understanding the human mind and behaviour. Practice retrieval methods by doing flashcards and using mnemonic devices to help remember the information better.