All flashcards
Flashcard 1: Identify the primary function of sensory memory.
Answer: Sensory memory temporarily holds sensory information. Brief storage of sensory input before processing.
Flashcard 2: Define 'working memory' in the context of cognitive psychology.
Answer: Working memory is a system for temporary storage and manipulation of information. Active system that processes information for cognitive tasks.
Flashcard 3: What is the difference between explicit and implicit memory?
Answer: Explicit memory is conscious recall, implicit is unconscious. Distinction between intentional and automatic memory processes.
Flashcard 4: What does the serial position effect describe?
Answer: The serial position effect describes better recall of first and last items. Demonstrates primacy and recency effects in memory.
Flashcard 5: Identify the primary function of sensory memory.
Answer: Sensory memory temporarily holds sensory information. Brief storage of sensory input before processing.
Flashcard 6: What is chunking, and how does it improve memory?
Answer: Chunking is grouping information into units to improve memory. Strategy that increases memory capacity through organization.
Flashcard 7: What is the term for the loss of memory over time?
Answer: This is referred to as decay. Natural weakening of memory traces over time.
Flashcard 8: Define 'episodic memory' in the context of memory types.
Answer: Episodic memory is the recall of personal experiences and events. Type of explicit memory for personal life events.
Flashcard 9: Which type of memory involves the conscious recollection of past experiences?
Answer: Episodic memory involves conscious recollection of past experiences. Autobiographical memory requiring conscious awareness and effort.
Flashcard 10: What is the dual coding theory in memory storage?
Answer: Dual coding theory involves verbal and visual information storage. Theory proposing two separate memory systems for different information types.
Flashcard 11: Define 'working memory' in the context of cognitive psychology.
Answer: Working memory is a system for temporary storage and manipulation of information. Active system that processes information for cognitive tasks.
Flashcard 12: What is the term for the vividness of memories for unusual events?
Answer: This is known as the von Restorff effect. Isolation effect where distinctive items are better remembered.
Flashcard 13: How does the spacing effect influence memory retention?
Answer: The spacing effect enhances retention by spreading learning over time. Distributed practice improves long-term retention.
Flashcard 14: Which model describes memory as a sequence of three stages?
Answer: The Atkinson-Shiffrin model describes three stages: sensory, short-term, and long-term memory. Classic model showing memory flow through distinct stages.
Flashcard 15: What is the function of the phonological loop in working memory?
Answer: The phonological loop processes verbal and auditory information. Component of working memory for language-based information.
Flashcard 16: Define 'retroactive interference' in memory processes.
Answer: Retroactive interference is when new information disrupts old information retrieval. Recent learning interferes with recall of older information.
Flashcard 17: What does the term 'priming' refer to in memory retrieval?
Answer: Priming is exposure to a stimulus influencing response to another stimulus. Previous exposure facilitates processing of related stimuli.
Flashcard 18: Identify the memory system that involves temporary holding of information.
Answer: Working memory involves temporary holding and manipulation of information. Active processing system beyond simple storage.
Flashcard 19: What is the primary focus of the central executive in working memory?
Answer: The central executive directs attention and coordinates cognitive tasks. Controls attention and coordinates working memory components.
Flashcard 20: How is information organized in a hierarchical model of memory?
Answer: Information is organized in a hierarchical structure with categories and subcategories. Knowledge organized from general concepts to specific details.
Flashcard 21: What is the phenomenon of 'context-dependent memory'?
Answer: Context-dependent memory is easier retrieval when in the same environment as encoding. Environmental cues enhance memory retrieval effectiveness.
Flashcard 22: Define 'iconic memory' in the sensory memory system.
Answer: Iconic memory is a brief visual sensory memory. Ultra-brief visual memory lasting milliseconds.
Flashcard 23: What is 'echoic memory' in the context of sensory memory?
Answer: Echoic memory is a brief auditory sensory memory. Ultra-brief auditory memory lasting a few seconds.
Flashcard 24: What is the term for the loss of memory over time?
Answer: This is referred to as decay. Natural weakening of memory traces over time.
Flashcard 25: How does state-dependent memory affect retrieval?
Answer: State-dependent memory retrieval is easier when in the same state as encoding. Internal state provides retrieval cues for better recall.
Flashcard 26: What type of memory is involved in skills and habits?
Answer: Procedural memory is involved in skills and habits. Type of implicit memory for learned motor behaviors.
Flashcard 27: Identify the memory phenomenon where old information affects new learning.
Answer: This is proactive interference. Previously learned information interferes with new learning.
Flashcard 28: Define the term 'storage' in the context of memory.
Answer: Storage is retaining encoded information over time. Second stage that maintains information in memory systems.
Flashcard 29: What is the process of consolidating memories?
Answer: Consolidation is stabilizing a memory trace after initial acquisition. Process that strengthens and stabilizes new memories.
Flashcard 30: What is the duration of information in short-term memory?
Answer: The duration is about 15-30 seconds without rehearsal. Limited timeframe before information decays without rehearsal.