Memory Processing

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Memory Processing

There are three basic stages in the processing of memories.

Encoding

The first stage involves the perception of things that happen around us. We can perceive things using all our senses - taste, sight, touch, smell and hearing.
Encoding is a selective process. We cannot focus on every sensory input around us all the time, so our brain focuses on the most important one or two. We are more likely to notice and encode:
- Emotional things.
- Novel or new things.
- Things that are important because of evolution.

Consolidation

After an event has been encoded, it may be consolidated in the brain.
Consolidation involves physical and chemical changes in our brain.
- These changes in our brain are often called memory traces.

Retrieval

Retrieval is the actual act of remembering or recalling something. That is, bringing that information back into your mind.
We must access the information stored in our brains to respond to the world around us.

Reconsolidation

About two decades ago, researchers discovered another stage in memory processing - reconsolidation.

Reconsolidation

Every time we retrieve or recall a piece of information, that memory trace often changes again.
- This process can make memories weaker or stronger.

Retrieval practice

Actively bringing information back to mind is one of the most effective learning techniques.
- This process creates stronger memory traces than passively reading notes, for example.

1Memory

1.1Memory Processing

1.1.1Overview of Memory

1.1.2Memory Processing

1.2Types of Memory

1.2.1Types of Memory

1.2.2Working Memory

2How Do We Learn?

2.1Neural Model of Learning

2.1.1Neural Model of Learning

2.1.2Desirable Difficulties

2.1.3The Forgetting Curve

3Cognitive Load Theory

3.1CLT

3.1.1CLT

3.1.2Background Knowledge

4Effective Strategies

4.1Rosenshine's Principles

4.1.1Rosenshine's Top 1-5

4.1.2Rosenshine's 6-10

4.2Dunlosky's Strategies

4.2.1Dunlosky's Strategies

4.3Dylan Wiliam

4.3.1Dylan Wiliam

4.4Daniel Willingham

4.4.1Daniel Willingham

4.5The Learning Scientists

4.5.1The Learning Scientists

4.5.2Practical Ideas

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