working memory model

Cards (9)

  • The working memory model is a development of the multi-store model proposed by Baddeley and Hitch (1974)
  • WMM is a model for short term memory and suggests STM is a dynamic processor of different types of information using sub units coordinated by a central decision making system
  • Central executive - controls attention and directs information to the slave systems
  • Phonological loop - deals with auditory and written information
    • Articulatory control process: allows maintenance rehearsal
    • Phonological store: stores acoustic items for a short period of time
  • Visuo-spatial sketchpad - stores visual or spatial information and has a limited capacity
    Logie (1995) subdivided it into 
    • the visual cache: stores visual information
    • Inner scribe: records arrangement of objects in the visual field
  • Episodic buffer (added by Baddeley in 2000)
    • He realised the model had no general storage facility 
    • Temporary store for information
    • Sends information from the other subsystems to the LTM
  • There is research support from the ability to complete dual tasks.
    Baddeley et al (1975) showed pps had more difficulty completing two visual tasks (tracking a light and describing the letter F) than doing both a visual and verbal task
  • there is criticism that the central executive is too vague. Cognitive psychologists suggest that this component is unsatisfactory and doesn’t fully explain anything
  • support for the central executive comes from Braver et al (1997) where they gave their pps tasks involving the central executive during a brain scan. They found greater activity in the prefrontal cortex.