Overview
The lecture explores why we forget information from long-term memory, focusing on interference as a key explanation beyond simple memory decay over time.
Decay Theory of Forgetting
- Hermann Ebbinghaus proposed Decay Theory, which states that memories fade simply due to the passage of time.
- This theory alone does not fully explain why we forget.
Interference Theory
- Interference occurs when two memories compete or become mixed up, leading to forgetting.
- The more similar the information, the greater the interference between memories.
- Proactive interference: old (past) memories interfere with new learning.
- Retroactive interference: new memories interfere with the recall of old information.
- Example: Forgetting where you parked due to previous parking habits is proactive interference.
Research on Interference
- McGeoch and McDonald (1931) found that learning similar lists (e.g., synonyms) causes more forgetting due to retroactive interference.
- Artificial tasks in laboratory studies may limit how these findings apply to real-life memory situations.
- Baddeley and Hitch studied rugby players and found that number of games played (not just passage of time) predicted forgetting, supporting real-world interference effects.
Limitations and the Role of Cues
- Interference requires memories to be similar, which is not always common in real life.
- Tolving and Psotka (1971) showed that providing cues restores forgotten memories, indicating interference may cause temporary inaccessibility rather than permanent forgetting.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Decay Theory — the idea that memory fades over time due to lack of use.
- Interference — forgetting caused by memories competing or mixing with each other.
- Proactive Interference — past memories disrupt new learning.
- Retroactive Interference — new learning disrupts the recall of old memories.
- Cued Recall — using hints or categories to aid memory retrieval.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice identifying examples of proactive and retroactive interference.
- Watch the suggested video on retrieval failure and the importance of cues for effective studying.