Part IV Definitions 6-10

Sensory memory (include all types): the initial recording of information that we get through our senses (taste, smell, see, etc.) Includes iconic memory (a visual image and remembrance that we only have for a few tenths of a second, a fleeting photographic memory) and echoic memory (a fleeting memory for auditory images, or things that we hear). Example: seeing a billboard and being able to clearly remember it for a VERY short time, but then only remembering parts of it.

Long-term memory (include storage): the memories that remain in our brains for years, or even our lives. The storage of long term memory is essentially limitless; there is no limit to how much we can remember. Example: My dad memorized parts of Shakespeare that he can still quote from highschool.

Short term memory: information that is quickly forgotten, especially for lack of rehearsal. Often it can last for only a few seconds, and we can only remember approximately seven pieces of short-term info (Magical Number Seven). Example: Quickly reading the words of a book and not being able to remember exactly what the sentence(s) were a few seconds later.

The role of emotion in memory: we remember more when we're excited or emotional. The same hormones that we release when we're stressed or excited help boost memory, and the amygdala (deals with emotion) also helps to increase memory activity. Example: Someone remembering their wedding, including minute details he/she might not have remembered in a different situation.

The Steps of Encoding: we either encode memories through automatic processing (without conscious thought) or through effortful processing (concsciously, with effort and attention we can rehearse/repeat information or use other ways to boost memory). The memories that we encode can deal with meaning (semantic encoding), imagery (visual encoding), or sound (acoustic encoding). Example: unconsciously noting the room that I'm sitting in would be automatic, while forcing myself to repeat song lyrics in my head so I can memorize it would be effortful processing.