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Full Study Guide

The study guide covers key concepts in memory and cognition, including categorization approaches (definitional, prototype, exemplar), encoding and retrieval processes, and the structure of long-term memory. It discusses the differences between explicit and implicit memory, the workings of working memory, and models like Baddeley & Hitch's and Cowan's. Key findings from case studies highlight the complexities of memory types and individual differences in working memory capacity.

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4 views4 pages

Full Study Guide

The study guide covers key concepts in memory and cognition, including categorization approaches (definitional, prototype, exemplar), encoding and retrieval processes, and the structure of long-term memory. It discusses the differences between explicit and implicit memory, the workings of working memory, and models like Baddeley & Hitch's and Cowan's. Key findings from case studies highlight the complexities of memory types and individual differences in working memory capacity.

Uploaded by

seneryunus55
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

FULL STUDY GUIDE – MEMORY & COGNITION

1. Concepts & Categories


Concepts are mental representations; categories group similar items. Categorization helps
interpretation, prediction, and reducing cognitive load.

Definitional Approach

Membership depends on meeting all defining features. Fails due to the typicality effect and unclear
category boundaries.

Prototype Approach

A category is represented by an 'average' member. Graded membership. High typicality → faster


recognition.

Exemplar Approach

Category represented by stored examples. Good for irregular categories and exceptions.

Hierarchy

Global → Basic → Specific. Basic level is most efficient for thinking and learning.

Semantic Networks & Connectionism

Collins & Quillian propose hierarchical networks. Connectionist models use distributed patterns and
explain typicality and similarity effects.
2. Encoding & Retrieval
Encoding is transforming information into memory. Retrieval is accessing stored information. Good
encoding improves retrieval.

Levels of Processing

Shallow = physical. Deep = meaning. Deep processing gives best memory.

Encoding Techniques

• Imagery • Self-reference • Generation effect • Testing effect • Distributed practice (spacing).

Retrieval Mechanisms

Pattern completion (hippocampus), recapitulation, strategic retrieval (frontal lobe).

Recognition: Recollection vs Familiarity

Recollection = detailed recovery. Familiarity = sense of knowing.

Encoding–Retrieval Match

Encoding specificity, state-dependent memory, transfer-appropriate processing.

Forgetting

Interference (retroactive/proactive), blocking, output interference, retrieval-induced forgetting.

Consolidation

Synaptic vs systems consolidation. Standard vs multiple trace model.


3. Long-Term Memory Structure

Types of Memory

Explicit: Episodic (events), Semantic (facts). Implicit: Priming, Procedural, Conditioning.

Episodic vs Semantic

Episodic involves mental time travel. Semantic is knowledge without context. Double dissociation
exists.

Case Studies

H.M.: Anterograde amnesia, impaired new episodic/semantic memory but preserved procedural
learning.
K.C.: No episodic memory but intact semantic memory.

Implicit Memory

Priming effects, procedural skills, classical conditioning. Works without awareness.


4. Working Memory
WM is temporary storage + manipulation of information for reasoning, comprehension, and
decision-making.

Baddeley & Hitch Model

• Central Executive: attention control. • Phonological Loop: verbal/auditory info. • Visuospatial


Sketchpad: visual/spatial info. • Episodic Buffer: integration with LTM.

Phonological Loop Effects

Word-length effect, phonological similarity effect, articulatory suppression.

Visuospatial Sketchpad

Handles mental rotation, spatial tasks. Interference occurs with similar types of tasks.

Cowan’s Model

WM = activated LTM + focus of attention. Capacity ~4 chunks.

WM Capacity & Neural Evidence

Digit span ~5–9. Chunking expands capacity. PFC maintains goal-related information during delays.

Individual Differences

High WM individuals resist distraction better (Vogel et al.).

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