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Module Introduction
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Information Procesing
Attention
Memory
Short-Term Memory
Long-Term Memory
Decision Making
Heuristics
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Cognition > Memory > Short-term - 1 of 1
 
 


Short-term Memory

Short-term memory (STM) - STM is the information processing model's storage system that falls between the sensory buffer store (that is, after the sensation/perception stages) and Long-term memory. STM relies heavily upon a short-term acoustic system of storage. Alan Baddeley reformulated much of the theory on STM into a Working memory model.

Working memory (WM) - WM refers more to the active, task-based nature of the information being stored, particularly in carrying out complex cognitive tasks. For example, in complicated mental arithmetic, one must hold the results of previous calculations in working memory while working on the next step. The working memory contains two complimentary systems for storing information. Both of these systems are controlled by the central executive:

  • Articulatory loop - the "inner voice" that functions as a rehearsal system for one's own spoken words; the "inner ear" or primary acoustic store where sounds and read material are represented
  • Visuospatial scratchpad - the "inner eye" that functions as a rehearsal system for visual input.
The little girl is performing basic perceptual tasks of seeing, touching, and smelling the flowers and utilizing short-term memory stores. She may also be accessing long-term memory stores if she is also trying to remember/associate previous experiences with these type of flowers.
 
 

 

  
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