memory unit

• memory: the persistence of leaving over time through encoding, storage, and retrieval of information; learning that has persisted over time
• information- processing models: compare human memory to a computer's operations
• encoding: get information into our brain; by extracting meaning
• storage: retain information over time
• retrieval: getting information out of memory storage
• our dual- track brain processes many things simultaneously by parallel processing
• memory forming process was creating by Atkinson and Shiffon
• sensory memory: brief recording of sensory info
• short- term memory: encoded through rehearsal; holds on to a few things briefly then sent into storage
• long- term memory: permanent and limitless storehouse for later retrieval of info
• sperling's experiment: ionic memory (momentary sensory memory of visual stimulus; .3 seconds) echoic memory (momentary sensory memory of auditory stimuli; 3 seconds)
• short- term memory can retain about 7 info bits; working memory capacity varies
• chunking: organizing info into manageable units (makes it easier to recall things)
• mnemonics: memory aids- vivid imagery and acronyms
• hierarchies: broad concepts divided into narrower concepts
• spacing effect: distributed study or practic helps long- term potention
• testing effect: enhanced memory after retrieving information
• shallow processing: encodes on a very basic level (ex. words letters) VS deep processing: encodes based on the meaning of the words
• the left and right frontal lobes process different types of memories (left: recalling a password; right: recalling a visual scene)
• hippocampus: helps process explicit memories for storage (located in the limbic system)
• if the hippocampus is damaged: left- can't remember verbal info; right- can't remember visual info
• Josep LeDoux: worked with a brain-damaged patient; the physician pricks her hand and the next day she refuses to shake hands
• the cerebellum plays a role in forming and storing implicit memories created by classical conditioning
• basal ganglia is involved with motor movement
• maintenance rehearsal: when you don't use it, memory decays quickly
• Peterson's STM task: test memory by giving you something to memorize and then a task; after the test, they need to recall what they memorize but they don't remember
• semantic encoding: encoding of meaning
• acoustic encoding: sound of words
• visual encoding: picture images
• elaborative rehersal: relate info to info you already know
• peg-word system: associate items to remember with a list of words already memorized
• emotions trigger stress hormones that influence memory formation (flashbulb memories: a clear memory of an emotionally significant moment or event)
• Kandel and Schwartz: observed synaptic changes during learning in the sending of neurons in Aplysia (slug); when learning occurs, more serotonin is released into certain synapses- become more efficient at transmitting signals
• long- term potential: an increase in cells firing potential after a brief, rapid stimulation
• 3 measures of retention: recall (retrieving info that is not currently in your conscious awareness), recognition (identifying items previously learned), and relearning (learning something more quickly when you learn it at a later time)
• priming: the activation (unconsciously) of particular associations od memory
• mood-congruent memory: the tendency to recall experiences that are consistent with one's mood good or bad
• serial position effect: our tendency to recall the last (recency effect) and first (primary effect) items on a list
• procedural memories: muscle memory, physical
• classically conditioned: emotional response, nervous system reacts