Lecture Notes: Working Memory Model

Introduction

• Presenters: Badley and Hitch
• Topic: Understanding how memory works; focus on working memory
• Previous Content: Explored multi-store model; identified it as too simplistic

Key Concepts

• Models in Psychology: Representations of mental processes
• Working Memory: Another term for short-term memory; involves storage and manipulation of information

Working Memory Model

• Components: Four main parts

Phonological Loop

• Function: Processes sound-based information
• Subcomponents:
  • Articulatory Control Process (Inner Voice): Rehearses verbal sounds; aids in speech preparation and thinking in words
  • Phonological Store (Inner Ear): Receives and stores sounds; helps maintain sounds through rehearsal
• Classroom Implication: Teachers should avoid talking while students are taking notes to prevent overload

Visual-Spatial Sketchpad

• Function: Handles visual information ("Inner Eye")
• Responsibilities:
  • Visualizing objects
  • Understanding spatial relationships
• Usage Example: Finding one’s way in the dark; visualizing movement from one classroom to another
• Teaching Tip: Combining visual and phonological information can aid comprehension

Central Executive

• Role: Controls the phonological loop and visual-spatial sketchpad
• Function: Decides focus and attention within working memory
• Example: Choosing what to focus on while reading or amidst distractions

Episodic Buffer

• Added Feature: Introduced in 2000 to address model's limitations
• Function: Integrates information across components and with long-term memory
• Example: Visualizing scenes from memories, like playing Quidditch in "Harry Potter"

Practical Application

• Task: Counting windows in one’s home
• Components Used:
  • Episodic Buffer: Links long-term and working memory
  • Visual-Spatial Sketchpad: Visualizes home layout
  • Phonological Loop: Counts windows mentally
  • Central Executive: Allocates resources and attention

Conclusion

• Review: Understanding components of the working memory model
• Further Exploration: Acknowledged research and evaluation available in a separate video

• Study Tip: Utilize visuals and verbal repetition to enhance memory retention. Look into dual coding for effective learning strategies.