PsychBoost Lecture: Processes of Memory

Introduction

• Purpose: Introduction to memory processes for GCSE Psychology.
• Support: Thanks to Patreon supporters; link for joining is provided.
• Resources: Free worksheet and quiz available.

Key Concepts in Memory

• Memory as a Process: Information flows through a system.
  • Detection (e.g., hearing a fact) → Storage → Retrieval (e.g., during exams).
• Cognitive Psychology: Examines how information flows in mental systems.

Encoding

• Definition: Changing the form of information for brain storage.
  • Visual Encoding: Mental imagery.
  • Acoustic Encoding: Inner voice, auditory information.
  • Semantic Encoding: Encoding information based on meaning.
    • Example: Associating facts with the name "Donald Trump."

Storage

• Definition: Storing information in the brain (neurons) for varying durations.

Retrieval

• Definition: Accessing stored information for use, known as output.

Types of Memory

• Short-term Memory (STM):

  • Duration: ~18 seconds.
  • Held through acoustic encoding (inner voice repetition).
  • Transfer to Long-term Memory (LTM) through rehearsal:
    • Maintenance Rehearsal: Repetition.
    • Elaborative Rehearsal: Associating with meaning.

• Long-term Memory (LTM):

  • Episodic Memory: Personal experiences and events.
  • Semantic Memory: Facts and meanings, like defining a word.
  • Procedural Memory: Skills, non-declarative (e.g., riding a bike).

Evaluations of Long-term Memory

• Episodic vs. Semantic Memory:
  • Research by Tolving:
    • Used radioactive gold and PET scans.
    • Different brain regions activate for episodic (frontal/temporal lobes) vs. semantic (parietal/occipital lobes) memories.
• Procedural Memory:
  • Case Study: HM:
    • Post-hippocampus removal: Lost ability to form new episodic/semantic memories, retained procedural memory.
• Complexity of Memories: Often combinations of types (e.g., tying shoelaces requires all three types).

Conclusion

• Importance of understanding memory types for answering questions.
• Additional resources available for further practice through Patreon.

Questions for Review

• Provided 5 practice questions to test understanding.

Note

• Further videos will cover structures of memory.