Overview
This lecture explains the information-processing model of memory, describing how information moves from sensory memory to working memory and then to long-term memory, including key distinctions between memory types.
The Information-Processing Model
- The information-processing model compares the brain to a computer: input, process, and output.
- The model is conceptual and does not map processes to specific brain regions.
Sensory Memory (Sensory Register)
- Sensory memory is a temporary store for information from the environment via the senses.
- The two main types are iconic memory (visual, lasts <0.5 seconds) and echoic memory (auditory, lasts 3–4 seconds).
- Only some sensory input is passed along for further processing based on attention.
Working Memory (Short-Term Memory)
- Working memory is what you are consciously thinking about right now.
- It holds about 7 (±2) pieces of information at a time.
- Visual/spatial info is processed in the visuo-spatial sketchpad; verbal info in the phonological loop.
- The central executive coordinates these systems and integrates their input into the episodic buffer for transfer to long-term memory.
Long-Term Memory
- Long-term memory is where information is more permanently stored.
- Capacity for long-term memory is believed to be unlimited.
Types of Long-Term Memory
- Explicit (declarative) memory involves facts/events you can describe, divided into:
- Semantic memory (facts and word meanings)
- Episodic memory (personal events or episodes)
- Implicit (non-declarative) memory involves skills or responses you can't easily verbalize, including:
- Procedural memory (how to perform tasks like riding a bike)
- Priming (recent experiences affect response to new stimuli)
Key Terms & Definitions
- Sensory Memory (Register) — brief, temporary storage of sensory input.
- Iconic Memory — sensory memory for visual information.
- Echoic Memory — sensory memory for auditory information.
- Working Memory — current, conscious mental activity; limited in capacity.
- Visuo-spatial Sketchpad — part of working memory for visual/spatial information.
- Phonological Loop — part of working memory for verbal information.
- Central Executive — directs attention and coordinates working memory components.
- Episodic Buffer — integrates and transfers information to long-term memory.
- Long-term Memory — storage for information over extended periods.
- Explicit Memory — memory of facts/events (semantic or episodic).
- Implicit Memory — memory for skills and responses (procedural or priming).
- Semantic Memory — memory for facts and meanings.
- Episodic Memory — memory for personal experiences.
- Procedural Memory — memory for how to perform actions.
- Priming — prior exposure influences current perception or response.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review key terms and concepts from the lecture.
- Reflect on examples of your own explicit and implicit memories.