Lecture 20

Memory 2

1. Encoding & Memory Overview
1. Automatic Encoding
2. Effortful Encoding
1. Repetition
2. Elaborative Encoding
2. Repetition & Memory
1. Forgetting Curve
2. Serial Position Effects
3. Relearning and Savings Score
4. Spaced vs. Massed Practice
3. Elaborative Encoding
1. Levels of Processing
2. Schemas
3. Mnemonic Devices
4. Retrieval
1. Retrieval Cues
2. Associative Network Models
3. Encoding Specificity Principle
4. Mood and Memory

Overview

Memory functioning is distributed across a number of brain regions, with the precise location depending on the type of memory under consideration (e.g., procedural knowledge, episodic memories). Memory is also influenced by the way we encode information and the strategies we use to retrieve it. Elaborative encoding is particularly effective, as it creates connections between the information we wish to remember and preexisting knowledge. In many cases, memory is best when the conditions present during retrieval match the conditions present during encoding.

Specifics

• Be familiar with areas of the brain that are involved in different forms of memory.
• Know what is meant by the term "long-term potentiation."
• Distinguish automatic and effortful encoding.
• Be familiar with the approach Ebbinghaus used to study memory, and his findings regarding the following terms: forgetting curve, serial position effects, relearning, and spaced vs. massed practice.
• Define and give three examples of elaborative encoding.
• Describe an associative network model of memory.
• Define the encoding specificity principle, and be able to recognize examples of context-dependent memory.
• Be familiar with the effects of mood on memory.