14
Retrieval of stored memories is an active process of reconstruction on the basis of what
probably, usually happens and is influenced by past experiences and cultural norms
● assimilate new information, changing our schemas to fit what we
have learned
● accommodate new information, changing our memories to keep our
schemas intact and unchanged by :
- Levelling: removing or downplaying details from the memory;
- Sharpening involves adding or exaggerating details.
Schema theory
Schemas are packets of stored information about a specific event/object learned through
previous experiences and expectations.
We draw on schemas to fill in the gaps in our memory (confabulation) to transform
it into a coherent story, and put pressure on our mind to remember things in a way
that fits in with the schema, removing / changing details.
Serial reproduction of the War of the Ghosts
Barlett asked 20 students to recall this native American story on several occasions and
compared how the recalled versions differed from the original.
Participants :
14
Retrieval of stored memories is an active process of reconstruction on the basis of what
probably, usually happens and is influenced by past experiences and cultural norms
● assimilate new information, changing our schemas to fit what we
have learned
● accommodate new information, changing our memories to keep our
schemas intact and unchanged by :
- Levelling: removing or downplaying details from the memory;
- Sharpening involves adding or exaggerating details.
Schema theory
Schemas are packets of stored information about a specific event/object learned through
previous experiences and expectations.
We draw on schemas to fill in the gaps in our memory (confabulation) to transform
it into a coherent story, and put pressure on our mind to remember things in a way
that fits in with the schema, removing / changing details.
Serial reproduction of the War of the Ghosts
Barlett asked 20 students to recall this native American story on several occasions and
compared how the recalled versions differed from the original.
Participants :
14
