working memory model

• 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.