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Introduction to Psychology: Memory and Learning Strategies

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Terms in this set (20)

  • What is memory?
    Memory is the process by which information is encoded, stored, and retrieved.
  • What did Ebbinghaus contribute to memory research?
    Ebbinghaus experimentally studied memory and is known for the Forgetting Curve and the Spacing Effect.
  • What does the Forgetting Curve show?
    The Forgetting Curve shows how retention of information decreases over time without review.
  • What is the Serial Position Effect?
    When recalling a list, people tend to remember the first (primacy effect) and last items (recency effect) better than middle items.
  • How does attention influence memory?
    Attention, influenced by physical state, emotion, and experience, affects how well information is encoded into memory.
  • What is the Spacing Effect?
    Distributed practice over time improves memory retention compared to massed practice (cramming).
  • What is Retrieval Practice?
    Retrieval Practice involves actively recalling information from memory to strengthen future recall.
  • What is Chunking in memory?
    Chunking is grouping smaller units of information into larger, meaningful units to bypass working memory limits.
  • Why is chunking effective for memory?
    Chunking reduces cognitive load by organizing information into manageable pieces, aiding storage in long-term memory.
  • What is Metacognition?
    Metacognition is the ability to monitor and control one’s own learning and memory processes.
  • What are the two types of metacognitive monitoring?
    Experienced-based judgments (feeling of ease) and theory-based judgments (understanding of memory principles).
  • How does elaboration improve learning?
    Elaboration involves asking how and why questions to create meaningful connections between ideas.
  • What is interleaving in study strategies?
    Interleaving mixes practice of related but different content to help compare, contrast, and distinguish information.
  • What role does sleep play in memory?
    Sleep supports memory consolidation and improves retention of learned information.
  • What is the primary function of retrieval cues?
    Retrieval cues trigger memory by associating a stimulus (like a photo or place) with stored information.
  • How can the forgetting curve be interrupted?
    Reviewing material soon after learning strengthens neural connections and slows forgetting.
  • What is the difference between short-term and long-term memory?
    Short-term memory holds information briefly (less than 30 seconds), while long-term memory stores information for extended periods.
  • What is the tip-of-the-tongue phenomenon?
    A temporary inability to retrieve a word or information despite feeling that recall is imminent.
  • How can you apply spaced practice for exams?
    Plan study sessions over weeks or months to review material multiple times, avoiding last-minute cramming.
  • Why is it important to understand the big picture before details?
    Understanding the overall context helps chunk information and improves meaningful learning and retention.