Using a computer as an analogy, describe the three processes involved in one's active memory system; and explain how information in each of the three stages of memory are encoded and how this information moves from one stage to the next

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Answer will include that incoming information is first encoded, or changed into a usable form. This step is like typing data into a computer or downloading picture images or sound. Next, information is stored, or held, in the system with human memory being pictured as three separate storage systems, which are sensory memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory. Unlike computer storage, human memory storage is not permanent in sensory or short-term memory and is also revised and changed, or even lost in long-term memory storage. Unlike computers, human long-term memory has unlimited storage and does not usually "crash" for a very long time. Finally, memories must be retrieved, or taken out of storage to be useful. The cues you use to retrieve information from your human memory are like the names of the files within your computer. Just like naming your files, if you do not use enough cues in labeling your memories, you may have difficulty retrieving them, such as remembering the psychology terms on your tests. Sensory memory holds an exact copy of what one sees or hears, that is, iconic memory and echoic memory, respectively. Iconic memory involves fleeting visual images that persist for about one-half second after being seen. An echo is a brief flurry of activity in the auditory system that lasts about two seconds. In general, sensory memory holds information just long enough to move it to the second memory system, short-term memory (STM). Selective attention, which involves focusing on a selected portion of sensory input, controls what information moves from sensory memory to STM, which stores only small amounts of information for a dozen seconds or so. Short-term memories can be encoded as images, but more often are encoded phonetically (by sound), especially when it comes to words and letters. STM is often used for more than just storing information. When STM is combined with other mental processes, it acts more like a sort of "mental scratchpad," or working memory, where we do much of our thinking. Information that is important or meaningful is retrieved from STM and encoded in long-term memory (LTM), which acts as a lasting storehouse for nearly limitless amounts of information. Thus, long-term memories are encoded on the basis of meaning, not sound.