Working Memory

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Working Memory

Working Memory is used to keep information in mind while we manipulate and use this information to complete a task. Alan Baddeley's model proposes four components of working memory.

Visuo-spatial sketch pad

The visuo-spatial sketchpad stores information that is in a visual form.
It can also process spatial information.

Phonological loop

The phonological loop stores speech-like information.
Can be kept for longer by subvocal or verbal rehearsal (saying the words again & again).
- Such as repeating a telephone number in your head until finish dialling it.

Central executive

The central executive is modeled to coordinate the other parts of working memory & controls where your attention is.
It controls how information will be stored and manipulated in the other components.

Episodic buffer

This component allows information from the other components to be combined and processed together.
- This allows us to make sense of all information being encountered at one time.
Information previously stored in long-term memory is also processed here in combination with novel information from the other working memory components.
- The buffer can also send information to long-term memory storage.

Long-Term Memory vs Working Memory

Although long term memory and working memory are very different, their interaction is the basis of learning.

Long-term memory

Storage system.
Unlimited capacity.
No expiry date.
Several sub-types.

Working memory

Manipulates information.
Limited capacity.
Holds information only as long as it is being used.
"Where thought takes place".

Analogies

We can think of working memory as a shoe box. It offers limited space and can break if you add too much to it.
We can think of long-term memory as Mary Poppins’ bag. You can fit as much as you want there and still be able to walk (or fly!) around.