Basic functions of memory
As memory processes and stores information, it is characterized by three basic functions.
The first function is encoding, which refers to putting information into people’s brains (Psychology 2e, n.d.). Encoding involves automatic processing that happens unconsciously and effortful processing, which requires putting effort to perceive information (Psychology 2e, n.d.).
The second function is storage which accounts for the preservation of information (Psychology 2e, n.d.). This function can be characterized by two models, with the first one proposing different forms of memory based on the received information and the other one suggesting stages of storing information (Psychology 2e, n.d.).
The third function is retrieval which refers to applying the memorized information (Psychology 2e, n.d.). Retrieving information involves recalling or accessing information, recognizing or identifying already learned information, and relearning something again (Psychology 2e, n.d.).
Combined, all these functions help to obtain, remember, and utilize information.
Stages of memory storage
In order for information to be remembered, it has to go through three stages of storage.
First, information is processed in sensory memory, which perceives sensory events for a couple of seconds to determine whether the information is valuable and should be kept for a longer period (Psychology 2e, n.d.).
Next, information moves to short-term memory, where it stays for about twenty seconds (Psychology 2e, n.d.). At this stage, information can be rehearsed, meaning that it can be consciously repeated to be remembered better (Psychology 2e, n.d.).
Finally, important information is continuously stored in long-term memory (Psychology 2e, n.d.).
As information goes through each stage and is stored in long-term memory, it is determined to be valuable.
Procedural and declarative memory
Long-term memory, which stores important information, can be characterized by procedural and declarative memory.
Procedural memory refers to unconscious information that is used to complete everyday actions with basic skills such as driving (Psychology 2e, n.d.). Moreover, procedural memory can reflect one’s behavior in various situations (Psychology 2e, n.d.).
Declarative memory, also known as explicit, accounts for consciously remembering and recalling certain facts and events (Psychology 2e, n.d.).
Although procedural and declarative are integral parts of memory in general, they require different levels of consciousness and are responsible for different kinds of knowledge. However, one can assume that information from declarative memory can be transferred to procedural memory with time and practice.
Semantic and episodic memory
Declarative memory that refers to consciously remembering information, can be divided into semantic and episodic memory.
Semantic memory accounts for remembering information related to language, such as words (Psychology 2e, n.d.). Following that, this type of memory refers to more conceptual knowledge.
On the other hand, episodic memory contains information about one’s personal experiences (Psychology 2e, n.d.). This type of memory accounts for summarizing and remembering placement, timing, and happenings of certain episodes from life (Psychology 2e, n.d.).
Although the two types of declarative memory both consciously contain information, semantic memory is associated with more abstract knowledge, whereas episodic memory is connected more to remembering past events. However, they both are well memorized and can be consciously recalled.
Reference
Psychology 2e (n.d.). Chapter 8: Memory. [PowerPoint slides].