Exploring Short-Term Memory Concepts

What is the primary function of short-term memory in the multistore model of memory?

• To store information permanently

• To hold information temporarily for processing

• To retrieve information from long-term memory

• To encode sensory information

Answer explanation

The primary function of short-term memory in the multistore model is to hold information temporarily for processing, allowing us to work with and manipulate data before it is either discarded or transferred to long-term memory.

In the Peterson and Peterson (1959) study, what was the primary method used to prevent rehearsal of information in short-term memory?

• Asking participants to solve mathematical problems

• Asking participants to count backwards in threes

• Asking participants to read a passage aloud

• Asking participants to write down the information

Answer explanation

In the Peterson and Peterson (1959) study, participants were asked to count backwards in threes to prevent rehearsal of the information, effectively disrupting their ability to maintain it in short-term memory.

What was the main finding of the Peterson and Peterson (1959) study regarding short-term memory?

• Information can be retained indefinitely with rehearsal

• Short-term memory has an unlimited capacity

• Information decays rapidly without rehearsal

• Short-term memory is not affected by interference

Answer explanation

The Peterson and Peterson (1959) study found that without rehearsal, information in short-term memory decays rapidly, supporting the correct choice that highlights the importance of rehearsal for memory retention.

What is memory?

• Memory is a type of computer storage device.

• Memory is the encoding, storage and retrieval of information.

• Memory refers to the physical space in a computer.

• Memory is the process of forgetting information.

Answer explanation

The correct choice defines memory as the encoding, storage, and retrieval of information, which encompasses the entire process of how we handle information, unlike the other options that focus on physical aspects or forgetting.

How does information move from sensory to short term memory?

• Information is stored directly in long-term memory.

• Information moves from sensory memory to short-term memory via attention.

• Sensory memory does not play a role in memory transfer.

• Information is transferred through emotional responses.

Answer explanation

Information moves from sensory memory to short-term memory via attention, which allows us to focus on specific stimuli and process them further. This is essential for retaining information temporarily.

What are the three main stores of memory in the Multistore Model of Memory?

• working memory, procedural memory, episodic memory

• short-term storage, long-term storage, flash memory

• sensory memory, short-term memory, long-term memory

• visual memory, auditory memory, semantic memory

Answer explanation

The Multistore Model of Memory identifies three main stores: sensory memory, which briefly holds sensory information; short-term memory, which temporarily stores information; and long-term memory, which retains information over extended periods.

How can we keep information active in short term memory?

• Focus on long-term memory techniques

• Use rehearsal and chunking techniques

• Ignore the information completely

• Only write it down once

Answer explanation

To keep information active in short-term memory, using rehearsal and chunking techniques is effective. Rehearsal helps reinforce the information, while chunking organizes it into manageable units, enhancing retention.