Memory

=Learning outcome=
 * Evaluate two models or theories of one cognitive process (for example, memory, perception, language, decision‑making) with reference to research studies. **

Make an appraisal by weighing up the strengths and limitations.
 * What does //EVALUATE// mean?**

When we evaluate a theory or model of memory, we can use criteria such as the following:
 * methodological issues
 * ethical issues
 * alternative theories
 * research evidence for
 * contradictory research

=Why study memory as a cognitive process?=

Psychologists often refer to memory as the mediator of behavior. It acts as a link between old information and new information, affecting our judgments, decisions, perceptions, and even leading to changes in the neural connections within the brain itself. Our past experiences influence our immediate and future actions and decisions. Research indicates that language (another cognitive process) structures can influence memory, however, memory systems are also an integral component of language development. Our memories interact with other cognitive processes as well as physiological processes, as well as forming an essential part of how we make sense of our social world. Schacter writes that ‘our memories define us’, that it is essential to the development of our own unique identity’. (p. 168)

=Types of memory= [|Declarative, procedural, episodic, semantic]
 * READ**

Create a definition for each of the following types of memory:
 * REVIEW**
 * declarative,
 * procedural,
 * episodic
 * and semantic

[|The topography of self and the environment]
 * READ **


 * ACTIVITIES**
 * 1) Tie your shoelaces blindfolded
 * 2) Draw a map of directions from here to the cafeteria
 * 3) Walk to the cafeteria and back blindfolded.
 * 4) Now describe each of the above experiences (tying your shoelaces, walking to the cafeteria, drawing a map of the walk) in the context of different types of memory (a separate description for each activity). Are your procedural and episodic memories operating together? Is your semantic memory relevant in this context
 * 5) Comment on the extent to which fear or disorientation contributed to your ability in the walking blindfolded activity

Read this study on factors that impact on sense of direction
 * Do you have a good sense of direction? **


 * REVIEW**
 * 1) What did the study compare?
 * 2) What were the findings?
 * 3) What is the significance of the findings in the context of factors that impact on sense of direction?

=Models of memory= REMEMBER - the task is to evaluate 2 models of a cognitive process.
 * Learning outcome: Evaluate two models or theories of one cognitive process **
 * So - we will define, explain and then evaluate TWO of the following models **


 * Power point on the models of memory **
 * Multi-store model (Atkinson and Shiffrin 1968)
 * Levels of processing model (Craik and Lockhart, 1972)
 * Working memory model (Baddeley and Hitch, 1974, 1990)

=Experiments= Your own research

If you are trying to hunt down a study, try []

The study of human memory - [|a review of the most significant work done on memory over time]
 * History**

A quick review of [|key experiments on memory]
 * Key experiments**

[|Experiments involving music and memory]
 * Music and memory**


 * The Stroop effect**



The original experiment: J. Ridley Stroop's [|Studies of interference in serial verbal reactions]