Memory and the Brain
CPD: Talking To Parents about Learning (by Patrice Bain), topic 1.1.2
Working Memory and Long Term Memory
Working Memory
- Working memory is similar to a computer workspace, a Post-It, or a notepad.
- It’s where we jot down points to remember.
- It contains limited information.
- Once we are finished using the items in our working memory, they tend to disappear.
Long term memory
- On the other hand, long term memory is where our memories are stored.
- It is unlimited.
- When we retrieve information, we are using long-term memory.
Working Memory vs Long-Term Memory
Working memory
- We can think of working memory as a shoe box. It offers limited space and can break if you add too much to it.
Long-term memory
- We can think of long-term memory as Mary Poppins’ bag. You can fit as much as you want there.
Test yourself on Memory and the Brain
Which type of memory is limited?
What happens to the myelin sheaths as more and more electrical currents are fired between neurons?