2.2.3 Procedural Memory

• Why is procedural memory important?

  It makes everyday tasks automatic and efficient
• What types of content does procedural memory store?

  Motor skills and habits
• How is semantic memory retrieved?

  Conscious recall
• What does procedural memory allow you to do?

  Learn and perform tasks automatically
• What is the first stage of procedural memory formation?

  Initial Learning
• What characterizes the automatization stage of procedural memory?

  The task becomes effortless
• What happens during the reinforcement stage of procedural memory formation?

  Practicing the task regularly
• What does episodic memory hold?

  Personal experiences
• What function does the cerebellum serve in procedural memory?

  It coordinates precise movements and timing
• How does procedural memory make cooking easier?

  You chop vegetables and follow recipes effortlessly
• What type of memory is procedural memory a part of?

  Long-term memory
• How do the basal ganglia contribute to routine movements?

  They help automate routine movements
• How does procedural memory change with practice in riding a bike?

  It shifts from conscious thought to automatic action.
• What is procedural memory distinct from?

  Semantic and episodic memory
• How does dopamine contribute to procedural memory formation?

  It helps reinforce connections between neurons
• How do the basal ganglia and cerebellum work together in procedural memory?

  They create and store procedural memories
• What are the key characteristics of procedural memory?

  • Stores how to perform tasks
  • Does not require conscious recall
  • Involves motor skills and habits
• What are the key benefits of procedural memory?

  • Increased Speed: Tasks are completed faster
  • Reduced Mental Effort: Less conscious focus required
  • Improved Skill Performance: Better accuracy and coordination
• What neurotransmitter is involved in reinforcing connections during practice?

  Dopamine
• What level of conscious awareness is associated with episodic memory?

  High
• What are the stages of procedural memory formation?

  1. Initial Learning

  • Performing a new task for the first time
  • Example: Trying to ride a bike

  1. Reinforcement

  • Practicing the task regularly
  • Example: Riding the bike every day

  1. Automatization

  • The task becomes effortless
  • Example: Riding without thinking about balancing
• What role do the basal ganglia and cerebellum play in procedural memories?

  They coordinate and store the steps of the skill
• Why is playing a musical instrument considered procedural memory?

  It involves learning to perform tasks automatically.
• What is the primary method through which procedural memories are formed?

  Repeated practice and reinforcement
• How does the cerebellum refine motor skills?

  Through practice
• What is procedural memory?

  Memory that stores how to do things
• What happens to dopamine release during practice?

  It strengthens connections between neurons
• What role does dopamine play in procedural memory?

  It facilitates reinforcement of learned skills
• What is the role of the basal ganglia in procedural memory?

  They select and execute motor plans
• What does semantic memory contain?

  Factual information
• How does procedural memory impact everyday tasks?

  It boosts efficiency and frees mental energy
• What are the primary neurobiological mechanisms involved in procedural memory?

  Basal ganglia and cerebellum
• In what activities might an 18-year-old in the UK rely on procedural memory?

  Studying, playing sports, and social activities
• What happens to your typing ability as you practice?

  Your fingers learn key positions automatically.
• At what age is procedural memory particularly relied upon in the UK?

  18 years old
• How is episodic memory retrieved?

  Vivid recollection
• What is a key characteristic of playing a musical instrument as procedural memory?

  It becomes easier with practice and familiarity.
• What happens to driving skills as procedural memory develops?

  Driving becomes a seamless automatic process
• What level of conscious awareness is associated with semantic memory?

  High
• What level of conscious awareness is associated with procedural memory?

  None