Short-term memory

Definition

Short-term memory refers to the capacity for holding a small amount of information in an active, readily available state for a brief period, typically around 15 to 30 seconds. This form of memory is crucial in cognitive processes as it allows individuals to temporarily store and manipulate information needed for tasks such as problem-solving and decision-making, which are vital for learning. The efficiency of short-term memory can significantly affect how well new knowledge is acquired and retained.

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, as proposed by psychologist George Miller.
2. Information in short-term memory can be retained longer through rehearsal or active manipulation of the data, which helps in transferring it to long-term memory.
3. Short-term memory plays a vital role in everyday tasks, such as remembering a phone number long enough to dial it or recalling instructions during a conversation.
4. Interference is a common issue that affects short-term memory, where new information can disrupt the retrieval of older information held in the same time frame.
5. Studies using tasks like the digit span test help illustrate the limits of short-term memory and its differences from long-term memory storage.

Review Questions

• How does short-term memory interact with working memory in cognitive tasks?
  • Short-term memory serves as the foundational component of working memory, where it temporarily holds information that is actively being processed. In cognitive tasks, this interaction allows individuals to manipulate and rehearse information, making it easier to solve problems or make decisions. For example, when solving a math problem, short-term memory retains the numbers involved while working memory helps calculate and manipulate those numbers for the solution.
• What methods can improve the efficiency of short-term memory in learning environments?
  • Improving the efficiency of short-term memory can be achieved through techniques such as chunking, where information is grouped into larger units, making it easier to remember. Additionally, employing rehearsal strategies—like repeating information out loud or mentally practicing it—can extend the retention duration. Utilizing mnemonic devices or visualization techniques can also help strengthen connections between new information and existing knowledge, enhancing recall during learning activities.
• Evaluate the implications of limited short-term memory capacity on educational practices and learning outcomes.
  • The limitations of short-term memory capacity have significant implications for educational practices. For instance, when teaching complex concepts, educators need to present information in smaller chunks to align with this capacity limit. If too much information is presented at once, students may struggle to retain and apply what they’ve learned, leading to poorer learning outcomes. Understanding these limitations encourages educators to design lessons that facilitate better retention strategies, such as integrating review sessions and hands-on activities that allow students to actively engage with the material.

Related terms

Working Memory: A cognitive system responsible for temporarily holding and processing information, allowing for reasoning and guiding decision-making.

Long-Term Memory: The phase of memory where information is stored for an extended period, often days, months, or even years, and can be retrieved when needed.

Chunking: A strategy used to enhance short-term memory by grouping information into larger, more manageable units or 'chunks' that can be remembered more easily.