The Complex Cognitive Journey - Encoding, Storing, And Retrieving Memories | California State University, Northridge

University:
California State University, Northridge
Course:
PSY 150 | Introduction to Psychology
Academic year:

2023
Views:

203

Pages:

1
Author:

JJIssac

THE COMPLEX COGNITIVE JOURNEY - ENCODING, STORING, AND RETRIEVING MEMORIES Memory refers to the remarkable human ability to retain, store and recall information about past experiences, images, ideas, and skills even after the original stimulus is gone. This "mental time travel" allows us to re-experience and learn from the past. Memory consists of dynamic processes for encoding, storing, and retrieving information. Encoding: Getting Information In Encoding is the process of acquiring information and converting it into a construct that can be stored in memory. Encoding often involves:  Sensory registration - Brief sensory storage of visual, auditory or other sensory input.  Transduction - Transforming stimulus energy into neural signals.  Semantic encoding - Extracting meaning from stimuli to aid retention. Efficient encoding requires paying attention to select important information, mentally elaborating on it, and linking it to existing knowledge to create meaningful memory traces. Storage: Retaining Information Storage refers to maintaining encoded information over time in the brain's memory systems. The AtkinsonShiffrin model proposes three main stages of memory storage:  Sensory memory - Ultra-brief (<1 sec) capacity to store sights, sounds, smells exactly as sensed.  Short-term (working) memory Actively holds limited information temporarily (~30 sec).  Long-term memory - Vast capacity for permanent storage of episodic, semantic and procedural memories. Rehearsal and mental organizational strategies aid transfer from short-term into long-term storage. Retrieval: Accessing Information Retrieval involves accessing stored information from the memory system so it can be used. Short-term memories are retrieved sequentially, while long-term memories are retrieved by association. Retrieval cues relating to the encoding context aid access to memories. Retrieval typically becomes more difficult as time passes. In summary, our remarkable memory arises through dynamic encoding, storage and retrieval processes that allow past experiences and knowledge to guide future behavior and thought. Understandings these complex cognitive feats remains an important endeavor.