Memory - AQA Psychology in 22 MINS! *NEW* Quick Revision for Paper 1

Summary

Key Points

• The Multi-Store Model of Memory (MSM) proposes that information flows through three distinct stores: the sensory register, short-term memory (STM), and long-term memory (LTM), each with specific coding, capacity, and duration. 1:09
• Evaluations of the MSM, supported by studies like Glanzer and Cunitz, suggest STM and LTM are separate, while research by Sperling, Baddeley, and Jacobs provides evidence for the specific coding, capacity, and duration of each store. 1:57
• Long-term memory is further categorized into declarative (explicit) memories like episodic (personal experiences) and semantic (facts/knowledge), and non-declarative (implicit) procedural memories (skills), with evidence from brain damage patients like Clive Wearing supporting their distinct nature. 5:23
• The Working Memory Model (WMM) replaced the unitary STM, proposing an active system with a Central Executive controlling attention and three subsystems: the Phonological Loop (auditory), Visuo-spatial Sketchpad (visual/spatial), and Episodic Buffer (integrating information). 7:48
• Studies like Baddeley's dual-task experiments and cases of selective brain damage (KF) support the WMM's idea of separate processing components, while the word length effect demonstrates the Phonological Loop's capacity. 9:22
• Forgetting can be explained by interference theory (proactive and retroactive, especially with similar information) and retrieval failure, where the absence of appropriate context-dependent, state-dependent, or organizational cues prevents recall. 11:15
• The accuracy of eyewitness testimony is significantly affected by leading questions (Loftus and Palmer), post-event discussion (Gabbert), and anxiety, which can either enhance or impair recall depending on its level (Yerkes-Dodson Law). 14:08
• To improve eyewitness testimony, the Cognitive Interview technique was developed, incorporating context reinstatement, reporting everything, recalling from a changed perspective, and recalling in reverse order to enhance memory retrieval. 18:23
• Research by Fisher and Kohnken indicates that the Cognitive Interview significantly increases the amount of correct information recalled compared to standard interviews, though it may also increase incorrect details and requires substantial training. 19:05