Psych 1107: Introduction to Memory

Overview of Memory System

• Memory formation starts at the sensory level (sight, sounds, smells, touch).
• Sensory input is represented psychologically, neurally, and physiologically.
• Short-term memory: Where we focus, use, and manipulate information.
• Long-term memory: Formed through repeated exposure and processing of stimuli.

Stages of Memory

• Introduction to three components:
  • Sensory memory
  • Short-term memory
  • Long-term memory
• Will further cover encoding, storage, retrieval, and forgetting in future lectures.

Memory Basics

• Historical Importance of Memory: Discussed in a TED Talk by Joshua Fowler.
  • Talks about the "memory palace" as a strategy.
  • Emphasizes the underutilization of memory in the modern era.

Types of Memories

• Explicit (Declarative) Memory:
  • Consciously aware of these memories.
  • Can declare, describe, or demonstrate.
  • Examples: Studying, recalling information purposefully.
• Implicit (Procedural) Memory:
  • Unconsciously expressed.
  • Developed through repeated exposure.
  • Examples: Motor skills, classical conditioning.

Memory Retrieval

• Recall vs. Recognition:
  • Recall: Retrieve information without cues.
  • Recognition: Identify information when presented with it.
  • Recognition is generally easier than recall.

Memory Effects

• Serial Position Effect:
  • Involves primacy and recency effects.
  • Primacy Effect: Better memory for items at the start.
  • Recency Effect: Better memory for items at the end.
  • Both effects contribute to better recall of first and last items due to less interference and more time to process.

These notes cover the foundational concepts of memory as discussed in the first lecture of Psych 1107, providing a basis for deeper exploration in subsequent lectures.