Memory and Cognition Terms

Elizabeth Loftus

• A cognitive psychologist known for her research on the misinformation effect and the nature of false memories.

• A neuroscientist who studies brain injuries and their effects on memory.

• A sociologist focused on the impact of social media on memory recall.

• A historian specializing in the accuracy of eyewitness testimonies.

Mnemonics

• Memory aids that use vivid imagery and organizational devices.

• Techniques for improving physical fitness.

• Methods for enhancing musical skills.

• Strategies for effective time management.

Recognition

• A measure of memory where the person must recall information without cues.

• A measure of memory in which the person need only identify items previously learned, as on a multiple-choice test.

• A method of learning that involves repetition and practice.

• A type of memory that focuses on the ability to remember events in chronological order.

Spacing Effect

• The tendency for distributed study or practice to yield better long-term retention than is achieved through massed study or practice.

• The phenomenon where information is forgotten more quickly when studied in a single session.

• The idea that cramming for an exam leads to better performance than studying over time.

• The belief that studying in a noisy environment improves memory retention.

Mood-Congruent Memory

• The ability to remember events from childhood more vividly when happy.

• The tendency to recall experiences that are consistent with one's current good or bad mood.

• The process of forgetting negative experiences to maintain a positive outlook.

• The phenomenon of recalling memories based on the time of day.

George A. Miller

• A psychologist who contributed to the cognitive revolution and proposed that short-term memory can hold about seven items.

• A neuroscientist known for his research on brain plasticity.

• A behaviorist who focused on conditioning and reinforcement.

• A philosopher who studied the nature of consciousness.

Long-Term Potentiation (LTP)

• An increase in a synapse's firing potential after brief, rapid stimulation. Believed to be a neural basis for learning and memory.

• A decrease in a synapse's firing potential after prolonged inactivity.

• A temporary increase in neurotransmitter release at the synapse.

• A process that solely occurs during sleep.

Déjà Vu

• A feeling of having experienced something before due to subconscious triggers from the current situation.

• A psychological condition where one cannot remember past experiences.

• A phenomenon where one feels an intense fear of new experiences.

• A memory disorder that affects the ability to recall recent events.

Flashbulb Memory

• A type of memory that is easily forgotten.

• A clear memory of an emotionally significant moment or event.

• A memory that is always accurate and reliable.

• A memory that is formed during sleep.

Relearning

• A measure of memory that assesses the amount of time saved when learning material again.

• A technique used to memorize information through repetition.

• A method of studying that involves summarizing key points.

• A process of forgetting information over time.