Memory and Forgetting – Study Notes
Definition:
Memory is the process by which we encode, store, and retrieve information. Forgetting
refers to the inability to retrieve previously stored information.
1. Stages of Memory
a. Encoding:
● Converting sensory input into a form the brain can process
● Types: Visual, Acoustic, Semantic
b. Storage:
● Maintaining information over time
● Sensory → Short-Term → Long-Term
c. Retrieval:
● Accessing stored information when needed
● Recall, Recognition, Relearning
2. Types of Memory
Memory Type Description Duration
Sensory Memory Brief storage of sensory info <1 sec (visual), ~3 sec
(iconic, echoic) (auditory)
Short-Term Memory Holds limited info temporarily 15–30 seconds, ~7 items
(STM)
Working Memory Active manipulation of info in e.g., mental math
STM
Long-Term Memory Permanent storage of information Unlimited
(LTM) capacity/duration
3. Types of Long-Term Memory
a. Explicit (Declarative) Memory
● Episodic: Personal events
● Semantic: Facts and general knowledge
b. Implicit (Non-Declarative) Memory
● Procedural: Skills (e.g., riding a bike)
● Priming: Exposure influences later behavior
● Classical Conditioning: Automatic responses
4. Memory Models
a. Atkinson-Shiffrin Model:
● Multi-store model (Sensory → STM → LTM)
b. Baddeley & Hitch Model (Working Memory):
● Central Executive
● Phonological Loop
● Visuospatial Sketchpad
● Episodic Buffer
5. Why We Forget
Cause Explanation
Encoding Failure Info never properly
encoded
Decay Theory Memory traces fade over
time
Interference
●
Proactive: Old info interferes with new
● Retroactive: New info interferes with old | | Retrieval Failure | Cues are missing
when trying to recall | | Motivated Forgetting | Repression of traumatic memories
(Freud) |
6. Memory Errors & Distortion
● Misinformation Effect (Loftus): Memory altered by misleading info
● Source Amnesia: Forgetting where info came from
● False Memories: Memories of events that never happened
● Confabulation: Filling in memory gaps with false info
7. Techniques to Improve Memory
● Chunking – Grouping info (e.g., phone numbers)
● Mnemonics – Acronyms, rhymes, method of loci
● Elaborative Rehearsal – Linking new info with existing knowledge
● Spaced Repetition – Spread out study sessions
● Testing Effect – Practice retrieval to strengthen memory
● Sleep – Essential for memory consolidation
✅ Quick Recap Table
Process Description
Encodin Input of information
g
Storage Keeping info over
time
Retrieval Getting info back out
Memory Type Example
Sensory Glancing at a scene
STM Holding a phone number
LTM Remembering a vacation
Episodic First day at school
Semantic Knowing Paris is in
France
Procedural Tying your shoes