Question

There are a number of different ways that the human brain codes memories. Compare and contrast three (3) ways in which our memory is coded.

Answer 1

• Memory is the process of maintaining information over time.(Matlin, 2005)
• Memory has 3 processes encoding,storage and retrieval.
• Encoding is the process of receiving sensory input and transforming it into a form or code which can be stored.

• There are three main ways in which information can be encoded:

  1. Visual (picture)

  2. Acoustic (sound)

  3. Semantic (meaning)

• for example, when you have to remember a phone number you would either see a image of it by using visual coding or repeat it to yourself by using acoustic or sound coding.

• In short term memory, we make use of visual coding more. For example,when presented with a list of words we will try to hold them in short term memory by rehearsing them verbally.  Rehearsal is a verbal process regardless of whether the list of items is presented acoustically i.e. someone reads them out or visually.

• In long term memory we use more of semantic coding i.e. meaning, However imagery could also be used. Using semantic coding,we make use of constructive processes which involves encoding a gist or meaning of complex information such as what we have read in newspapers,books etc. Inferences can also be used.