Memory and retention in learning

For other senses of this term, see Memory or Learning
Model of the Memory Process

Human memory is the process in which information and material is encoded, stored and retrieved in the brain.[1] Memory is a property of the central nervous system, with three different classifications: short-term, long-term and sensory memory.[2] The three types of memory have specific, different functions but each are equally important for memory processes. Sensory information is transformed and encoded in a certain way in the brain, which forms a memory representation.[3] This unique coding of information creates a memory.[3]

Memory and retention are linked because any retained information is kept in human memory stores, therefore without human memory processes, retention of material would not be possible.[4] In addition, memory and the process of learning are also closely connected. Memory is a site of storage and enables the retrieval and encoding of information, which is essential for the process of learning.[2] Learning is dependent on memory processes because previously stored knowledge functions as a framework in which newly learned information can be linked.[5]

Information is retained in human memory stores in different ways, but it is primarily done so through active learning, repetition and recall.[6] Information that is encoded and stored within memory stores can often be forgotten. There are multiple explanations for why this happens. These include: ineffective encoding of material, decay of information, interference, competition of newly learned material and retrieval failure.[7] There are multiple ways of improving the abilities of human memory and retention when engaging in learning. These depend on the nature of how the information was originally encoded into memory stores, and whether the stored material is regularly retrieved and recalled.[4] Human memory has been studied throughout history, and there is extensive literature available to help understand its complexity.

  1. ^ Spear, Norman E. (2014). The Processing of Memories (PLE : Forgetting and Retention. Taylor and Francis. ISBN 9781317743842. OCLC 879947178.
  2. ^ a b Radvansky, Gabriel A. (2017). Human Memory : Third Edition. Taylor and Francis. ISBN 9781134871735. OCLC 979169944.
  3. ^ a b Klimesch, Wolfgang (2013). The Structure of Long-term Memory: A Connectivity Model of Semantic Processing. Psychology Press.
  4. ^ a b Weiten, Wayne (2013). Psychology: Themes and Variations. Nelson Education Limited. ISBN 9780176721275. OCLC 1028226770.
  5. ^ Cite error: The named reference auto8 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  6. ^ Kahana, Michael Jacob. (2014). Foundations of human memory. Oxford University Press. ISBN 978-0199387649. OCLC 884861998.
  7. ^ Cite error: The named reference auto7 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).