Question

1 The information processing model refers to a channel of communication divided in 4 steps. What are those 4 steps?(Describe it briefly ) How can we understand memory based on that model? (100 words minimum; 5 points).

• Encoding (sensory/short-term memory)
• Storage (short-term/long-term memory)
• Programming (control processes)
• Retrieval (what the person says or does)

#2 Discuss some other aspect of memory that might have been of your interest trough this lecture; something other than the information processing model please! (100 words minimum; 5 points) (it has to be different from the previous answer)

Module 22: Studying and building memories

Module 23: Storage and retrieval

Module 24: Forgetting, memory construction and memory improvement

Answer 1

1) The information processing model is a cognitive psychology theory. According to the model, our human memory is analogous to a computer or how human memory works can be understood by explaining how a computer processes information.

There are four stages in the model: attention, encoding, storage, and retrieval.

The first stage of information processing is selective attention wherein we give our complete attention to a task or information. As attention occurs we are preparing ourselves to receive information.

The second stage is encoding. Encoding is the process of converting an information to a form that is readable to the brain; similar to a computer encodes data. Once we pay attention to the information, the brain receives it by encoding it.

The third stage is the storage of the information. This means the information is stored either in the short term or long-term memory to make use of it at some other point of time.

The fourth and final stage is the retrieval of the information when needed. Here, one uses the stored information by bringing them to conscious awareness.

2) Forgetting is a gradual process in which a memory is lost or modified either due to encoding failure or failure to retrieve information.

Memory decay, fading of memory, amnesia, brain trauma, repression, etc are some types of forgetting

The curve of forgetting explains that memory starts declining if it is not retrieved for a long time.