multi-store memory

• the multi-store model is a cognitive approach that explains memory as information passing through a series of 3 storage systems: 

  1. the sensory register
  2. short-term memory
  3. long-term memory.
• • Coding: The format the information is stored as.
  • Capacity: How much information can be stored.
  • Duration: How long the information is stored for.
• sensory memory store:

  • the sensory register temporarily stores and codes information from our senses
  • unless we pay attention to it, it disappears quickly through spontaneous decay
  • the sensory register has a large capacity, and a very limited duration (milliseconds)
  • information is coded depending on the sense that has picked it up
• If the individual pays attention to the information coming in via the sensory register, that information is passed on to the next storage system of the MSM – short-term memory – where it may be retained for longer.
• Short term memory:

  • short term memory has a limited capacity (5-9 items) and limited duration (30 seconds) but can be extended via rehearsal
  • coding is usually acoustic (through sound)
• Long term memory:

  • has unlimited capacity and duration is theoretically permanent
  • coding is usually semantic (the meaning of the information)
  • there are three different types of long term memory; 1. episodic memory 2. semantic memory and 3. procedural memory
• 1. Episodic memory - stores information about events that you've actually experienced. it can contain information about a time or place, emotions you felt, and the details of what happened. these memories are declarative - this means they can be consciously recalled.
  2. semantic memory - stores facts and knowledge that we have learnt and consciously recall such as word meanings. It doesn't have contain the details of the time or place where you learn information
  3. procedural memory - stores the knowledge of how to do things like playing the piano. The information can't be consciously recalled.