Short-term memory

Definition

Short-term memory is a cognitive system that temporarily holds and manages information for brief periods, typically around 15 to 30 seconds. It serves as a workspace for processing information before it either decays or is encoded into long-term memory, making it crucial for tasks like problem-solving and comprehension.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Short-term memory typically has a limited capacity, often cited as being able to hold about 7±2 items at once, according to Miller's Law.
2. The duration of information in short-term memory is generally very brief, lasting only about 15 to 30 seconds without rehearsal.
3. Rehearsal techniques, such as repeating information or chunking, can help maintain information in short-term memory longer and enhance the likelihood of encoding it into long-term memory.
4. Short-term memory plays a critical role in daily tasks, such as remembering phone numbers long enough to dial them or following multi-step instructions.
5. Unlike long-term memory, which can store vast amounts of information for extended periods, short-term memory is more about the temporary holding and manipulation of data.

Review Questions

• How does short-term memory function in relation to working memory during cognitive tasks?
  • Short-term memory functions as a temporary holding space for information that can be manipulated during cognitive tasks. Working memory, which is an extension of short-term memory, actively engages with this information for problem-solving and decision-making. For example, when solving a math problem, short-term memory retains the numbers involved while working memory processes them to arrive at a solution.
• Discuss the importance of rehearsal techniques in enhancing short-term memory capacity.
  • Rehearsal techniques are essential for improving short-term memory capacity as they enable individuals to keep information active longer. By using methods like verbal repetition or chunking, people can effectively extend the duration that items remain in short-term memory. This not only helps prevent forgetting but also increases the chances of transferring that information into long-term memory for future use.
• Evaluate how understanding short-term memory can inform strategies for effective learning and information retention.
  • Understanding the mechanics of short-term memory can greatly influence learning strategies. For instance, knowing its limited capacity encourages learners to chunk information or use mnemonic devices to organize data efficiently. Additionally, recognizing the fleeting nature of short-term retention highlights the importance of repetition and practice in solidifying knowledge into long-term memory. This understanding helps educators design curricula that align with cognitive principles to enhance student learning outcomes.

Related terms

Working Memory: A type of short-term memory that involves the active manipulation and processing of information needed for complex cognitive tasks.

Chunking: A technique used to improve short-term memory capacity by grouping information into larger, manageable units.

Forgetting Curve: A graphical representation that shows the decline of memory retention over time, illustrating how quickly information is forgotten without reinforcement.