Memory and Cognition exam questions and answers

Memory The persistence of learning over time through storage and retrieval of iformation Cognition The mental activities associated with thinking, knowing, remembering and communicating Encoding Processing information into the memory system Storage Retention of encoded information. Retrieval Pulling information out of memory storage (i.e. out of long term memory and into working memory). Sensory memory The immediate and brief recording of sensory information into the memory system. Short-term memory Activate memory that holds about 7 (plus or minus) items briefly before the information is stored or forgotten. Long-term memory The relatively permanent and limitless storehouse of the memory system. Working memory A newer understanding of short-term memory that focuses on conscious, active processing of incoming information, and of information retrieved from long-term memory. Parellel processing The processing of many aspects of a problem simultaneously. Automatic processing Unconscious encoding of incidental information, such as space, time and frequency or of well-learned information, such as word meanings. Effortful processing Encoding that requires attention and conscious effort Rehearsal The conscious repetition of information, either to maintain it in the working memory or store it in long-term memory. Spacing effect The tendency for distributed study or practice to yield better long-term retention. Serial position effect Tendency to recall the last and first items in a list. Visual encoding The encoding of picture images. Acoustic encoding The encoding of sound. Semantic encoding The encoding of meaning, including the meaning of words. Imagery Creating mental pictures. Mnemoics Memory aids. Chunking The grouping of information into familiar, meaningful units. Iconic memory A momentary sensory memory of visual stimuli; a picture-image memory lasting no more than a few tenths of a second. Echoic memory A momentary sensory memory of auditory stimuli; if attention is elsewhere, sounds and words can still be recalled within 3-4 seconds.