Memory Model Overview

Overview

This lecture explains the Multi-Store Model of Memory (MSM) as proposed by Atkinson & Shiffrin, describing how memory works through sensory, short-term, and long-term stores, and evaluates its strengths and limitations for A Level Psychology.

The Multi-Store Model of Memory (MSM)

• Atkinson & Shiffrin (1968-1971) proposed the MSM to explain how memories are formed and stored.
• The MSM has three separate memory stores: sensory register, short-term memory (STM), and long-term memory (LTM).
• Information flows between stores through processes like attention and rehearsal.

Sensory Register (SR)

• The SR receives information from all five senses with separate stores for each sense.
• Coding in the SR is modality-specific: iconic for visual, echoic for sound, etc.
• The SR has a very high capacity but holds information for only milliseconds.
• Attention is required to move information from SR to STM.

Short-Term Memory (STM)

• STM processes information for immediate use, such as directions or names.
• Coding in STM is mainly acoustic (sound-based).
• STM has a limited capacity (5–9 items, Miller’s magic number 7).
• Duration of STM is about 18 seconds unless information is rehearsed.
• Maintenance rehearsal repeats information superficially; elaborative rehearsal involves deeper processing for transfer to LTM.

Long-Term Memory (LTM)

• LTM stores information permanently about past experiences or facts.
• Coding in LTM is mostly semantic (meaning-based).
• LTM capacity is potentially unlimited and can last a lifetime.
• Retrieval is needed to access LTM and bring it to STM.
• Some memories are forgotten because they are either not transferred, decay, or are unavailable for retrieval.

Evaluation of MSM

• Strength: Lab studies (like Baddeley, 1966) support distinct stores for STM (acoustic) and LTM (semantic).
• Strength: Case study of HM supports the idea of different brain areas for STM and LTM.
• Limitation: MSM is too simplistic; STM and LTM likely have multiple components.
• Limitation: Much research used artificial tasks, limiting real-world application and ecological validity.

Key Terms & Definitions

• Multi-Store Model of Memory (MSM) — Theory of separate memory stores (SR, STM, LTM).
• Sensory Register (SR) — Initial, high-capacity store for sensory information lasting milliseconds.
• Short-Term Memory (STM) — Temporary, limited-capacity store for immediate information.
• Long-Term Memory (LTM) — Potentially permanent and unlimited-capacity memory store.
• Coding — The format in which information is stored (e.g., acoustic, visual, semantic).
• Capacity — Amount of information that can be held in a store.
• Duration — Length of time information can be stored.
• Maintenance Rehearsal — Repetition to keep information in STM.
• Elaborative Rehearsal — Deep processing to transfer information to LTM.

Action Items / Next Steps

• Review Baddeley (1966) and Miller (1956) studies for evidence supporting MSM.
• Practice evaluating MSM using example AO3 questions for exam preparation.
• Read about the Working Memory Model for greater detail on STM components.