Lecture Notes: Types of Long-Term Memory

Introduction

• Discussed the multi-store model of memory.
• Long-term memory is coded semantically.
• Introduced three types of long-term memory: semantic, procedural, and episodic.
• Importance of distinguishing between these memory types.

Types of Long-Term Memory

Semantic Memory

• Definition: Memory of facts and concepts; knowledge about the world.
• Declarative: Can be expressed in words (e.g., defining a 'bike').
• Not Time-Stamped: Does not include reference to when the memory was formed.
• Brain Region: Parahippocampal cortex associated.

Episodic Memory

• Definition: Memory of personal experiences/events.
• Declarative: Can be described verbally (e.g., last time riding a bike).
• Time-Stamped: Includes reference to time and place.
• Brain Region: Prefrontal cortex coding, stored across the brain, connected by the hippocampus.

Procedural Memory

• Definition: Memory of skills, often referred to as 'muscle memory'.
• Non-Declarative: Difficult to put into words; performed unconsciously.
• Not Time-Stamped: Does not include reference to timing of learning.
• Brain Region: Involves motor cortex and cerebellum.

Characteristics and Distinctions

• Declarative vs. Non-Declarative
• Conscious vs. Unconscious Recall: Episodic & semantic can be recalled consciously; procedural cannot.
• Autobiographical Nature: Episodic is autobiographical; semantic and procedural are not.
• Resistance to Forgetting: Procedural is most resistant; episodic is easiest to forget.
• Emotional Influence: High emotional connection strengthens episodic memories.
• Depth of Processing: Influences strength of semantic memories.
• Practice: Strengthens procedural memories.

Research and Evidence

Studies Supporting Distinctions

• Vargha-Khadem Study: Young amnesic patients with hippocampus damage could still learn new facts (semantic memory intact) but had episodic amnesia.
• Clive Wearing Case Study: Severe brain damage results in distinct memory loss: episodic memories lost, procedural and some semantic memories intact.
• Idiographic Research: In-depth case studies provide insight but may not be generalizable to healthy populations.

Evaluating the Distinctions

• Modern cognitive neuroscience using PET and FMRI scanners support separation of memory types by showing different brain activations.
• Arguments Against Clear Separation
  • Episodic can become semantic over time.
  • Connection between procedural and semantic memory (e.g., automatic language production).

Conclusion

• Understanding these distinctions helps in identifying and categorizing types of long-term memory.
• Importance in practical applications and theoretical understanding of memory processes.
• Encouragement to explore further through exercises and exam questions.

Further Learning

• Real exam questions available on specified platforms.
• Subscription to relevant educational resources for continued learning.