6.1 & 6.2
This trio of mental processes includes encoding, storage, and retrieval — forming the foundation of how we take in, keep, and later access information.
“What are the three processes of memory?”
This type of memory acts as a filter, briefly holding sensory information before it's passed on to short-term memory.
What is sensory memory?
This memory system has an unlimited capacity and stores information for long periods—often permanently.
What is long-term memory (LTM)?
This first stage of memory involves converting sensory input into a form that the brain can process and store.
“What is encoding?”
This form of sensory memory briefly holds visual information for about 0.25 to 0.5 seconds.
What is iconic memory?
This type of long-term memory includes skills and habits like riding a bike or tying your shoes.
What is nondeclarative (implicit) memory?
This second process of memory is responsible for maintaining information over time so it can be used later.
“What is storage?”
Iconic memory allows the brain to process what we see, even when our eyes move quickly—like when you see this visual effect from a sparkler.
What is a trail or afterimage?
This type of declarative memory includes general facts and knowledge, such as knowing the capital of France.
What is semantic memory?
According to this model, the deeper you process information—such as thinking about its meaning—the better you’ll remember it.
“What is the Levels of Processing Model?”
STM can usually hold about this many items at once.
What is 3 to 5 items?
This type of learning suggests that being in the same physical location as when you learned something can help you recall it better.
What is context-dependent learning?
This model suggests that memory is processed across a wide neural network all at once, rather than in a step-by-step sequence.
“What is the Parallel Distributed Processing (PDP) Model?”
This upgraded version of short-term memory not only stores but also manipulates information for problem-solving and decision-making.
What is working memory?
According to the encoding specificity principle, this type of information is stored along with the memory and can help bring it back later.
What are cues present during encoding?