Key Area 3 3 Memory Unit 3 Neurobiology

Key Area 3. 3 – Memory Unit 3 Neurobiology and Immunology Higher Human Biology for Cf. E Miss Aitken

Memory • Memories include experiences which have happened in the past, thoughts had in the past and knowledge which has been previously gained. • All information passes through the sensory organs, through sensory memory and enters the short term memory (STM). • The sensory memory retains all the visual and auditory input received, but only for a few seconds. Only some images and sounds are encoded into the short term memory. • The STM can be maintained by rehearsal.

Memory • Items in the short term memory ‘decay’ quickly and are displaced by new items entering. • The short term memory has a limited span.

Chunking • Chunking improves short term memory by grouping items together to make a single item. • Phone numbers: 01419552393 • 0141 955 2393

Serial Position Effect • The serial position effect influences groups of items entering the STM. • Those items in the group that come first (primacy) and last (recency) are better recalled than the intermediate items. If individuals are presented with a sequence of words and then asked to recall them, their performance is affected by the SPE.

Long Term Memory • Transfer of items to the long-term memory can be brought about by: – Rehearsal – repeating information frequently – Organisation – putting information into categories and sub-categories – Elaboration – building more detail into the information Retrieval is the recall of information when required

Encoding • Information to be added to memory has to be encoded. • Encoding is where nerve signals are converted into a form that can be interpreted by the brain. • Shallow encoding uses methods like rehearsal • Deep encoding uses methods like elaboration

Contextual Cues • A contextual cue is used to help get information from the brain • It will help to “jog the memory” • Photographs or significant objects can bring memories back • Often used by police or psychiatrists Now copy the table from bottom of HTP page 146