Short Term Memory

Chapter 6
Memory
Short Term Memory

Short term memory lasts 20 – 30 seconds.

Has limited capacity

The raw capacity of stm is 7 (+) or (-) two items after one exposure to them without regrouping or reorganizing the information as it is received.









Chapter 6
Memory
Chapter Outline
STM/Working Memory

Working memory: a memory system in which information we are processing at the moment is held; formerly called short term memory. (Involves both storage capacity and a mechanism of attention that regulates the contents of this system)

A. Storage Capacity of short term memory
1. Can hold about 7 (+/-) two discrete items.
2. Chunking allows more memory to be stored

B. Working Memory Storage
1. Active: something active is happening
2. Stores for short periods, yet also permits us to determine what information is retained in short term storage and what is ignored or actively blocked.
3. Three parts
a. short term memory (temporary storage of information)
b. a mechanism that permits rehearsal of this information so that it is maintained and perhaps moves into long term storage.
c. a mechanism of attention that permits some information to enter while ignoring other information.