Define working memory and discuss Baddeley's model of working memory. Give an example of how your brain processed an event in your life, according to Baddeley's model.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Student examples will vary. A sample answer follows.
Working memory is a subset of short-term memory. When I use my working memory, I pull from my short-term memory only the few bits of information that I need right now.
Baddeley's model divides working memory into subcategories. The visuospatial sketchpad stores visual information in working memory. The phonological loop stores verbal and auditory information in working memory. If the visuospatial sketchpad and phonological loop are momentarily full, then the new information goes to the episodic buffer. The last part of Baddeley's model is the central executive, which helps the brain focus on which stimuli are most urgent or important.
When I go to a parade, the floats that I see get stored on my visuospatial sketchpad, and the sound of the marching bands goes to my phonological loop. If another stimulus presents itself--such as my friend starting a conversation with me--then that gets stored in the episodic buffer. The episodic buffer means that I can watch the parade, listen to the music, and listen to my friend all at once. The central executive helps me decide that my friend's conversation is most important and allows me to focus mainly on that.