Memory

Memory: the persistence of learning over time through the storage and retrieval of information

Memory Process

1. Encoding: The processing of information into the memory system

• Ex: typing info into a computer, getting a girl's name at a party

     2. Storage: the retention of encoded material over time

•   Ex: pressing ctrl s and saving the info, trying to remember her name when you leave the party

     3. Retrieval: the process of getting the information out of memory storage

• finding your document and opening it up, seeing her the next day and calling her the wrong name (retrieval failure)

Recall: you must retrieve the information from your memory (fill in the blanks)

Recognition: you must identify the target from possible targets (multiple choice tests)

Flashbulb memory; a clear moment if an emotionally significant moment or event

Sensory memory: the immediate, initial recording if sensory information in the memory system
-stored just for an instant, and most gets unprocessed
-lasts up to a half a second for visual, it lasts 2-4 seconds for auditory, the capacity of storage is large and any information that is not transferred is lost

Short term memory: memory that holds a few items briefly
-seven digits (plus of minus two)
-the info will be stored into long term or forgotten
-aka working memory
-it has a limited capacity

Working memory has three parts
1. Audio
2. Visual
3. Integration of audio and visual (controls where your attention lies)

Long term memory: permanent and limitless storehouse

Encoding: getting the information in our heads

Two ways to encode information
-automatic processing: unconscious encoding of incidental information, you encode space, time and word meaning without effort, things can become automatic with practice
-effortful processing: encoding that requires attention and conscious effort, rehearsal is the most common effortful processing technique, through enough rehearsal, what was effortful becomes automatic