Multi store model

Question 1

MMM

Answer 1

memory is a basic process used to encode, store & retrieve info. There exist many models in psych to describe human memory. One of them is the MMM

Question 2

MMM states

Answer 2

• memory consists of 3 seperate components: sensory mem store, ST mem store & LT mem store
• info flows from sensory mem to LTM if certain conditions are met: attention & rote rehearsal

Question 3

each of the 3 components of mem is characterised by:

Answer 3

• duration (how long info can be kept in this sore)
• capacity (how much info can be stored)
• conditions necessary for info to move from this store to the next one

Question 4

Mem process

Answer 4

info travels from sensory memory to STM to LTM. Rehearsal (mental repetition of a stimulus) is the main means of transferring info into LTM, where it can be stored indefinitely. However, not all info stored in LTM is easily retrievable.

Question 5

Strengths of MMM

Answer 5

• concept widely supported by research
• first real model of memory, taking a new approach to understanding human information processing
• possible to make predictions based on the MSM and to design experiments based on MSM
• used as a basis for more detailed models

Question 6

Weaknesses of MMM

Answer 6

• overly simplistic, does not account for different types of LTM like episodic, semantic, and procedural
• idea of a single LTM shown to be incorrect by empirical evidence
• does not explain distortions in memory or how some memories (e.g. highly emotional) can be encoded with minimal rehearsal

Question 7

sensory memory

Answer 7

shortest memory store - takes in sensory information and transfers it to STM. Iconic memory (visual), echoic memory (auditory)

Question 8

STM

Answer 8

Limited capacity and lasts around 12 seconds. Information is transferred from STM to LTM

Question 9

LTM

Answer 9

• memories stored here after rehearsal, can be recalled
  
  • long term memory has infinite capacity and duration
  • lost due to interference (memories integrate and become indistiguishable) decay (lost over time) and retrieval failure (retrieval is dependent on a cue which is missing)