Models of memory – The multi-store model

1. Models of memory – Themulti-store model You need to know how to describe the components and processes of the multi-store model (MSM) describe and explain the concepts of encoding, duration and capacity describe research studies to evaluate the model explain the strengths and weaknesses of the model

2. Class Test • You want to embark on a study into mobile addiction. • Outline the five steps your research would undergo. • Explain how you would ensure your study is valid.

3. Glossary • STM • LTM • Decay • Rehearsal • Displacement • Encoding • Duration • Capacity

4. The multi-store model of memory (Atkinson and Shiffrin, 1968) • THREE separate stores – sensory, short term and long term • Sensory memory has a store for each of the senses • STM and LTM are unitary stores – each operate like a single unit with no separate compartments

5. Information • Passes through the stores in a fixed sequence • Can be lost at any stage • Usually has to be recoded as it passes from store to store • Can only pass from sensory memory to STM if given attention • If not given attention information is lost (decay) • Can only pass from STM to LTM if we rehearse it • If not rehearsed enough, it is lost (through decay and displacement). • Each store is different in terms of encoding, duration and capacity