Ericsson and Kintsch (1995) model
The first model which attempts to explain how working memory functions is the Ericsson and Kintsch (1995) model which explains that all individuals utilize skilled memory in everyday tasks however most these memories are stored in long term memory and then subsequently retrieved through various forms of retrieval mechanisms
(Gobet, 2000). Ericsson and Kintsch explain that it would be impossible to “hold” so to speak all memories within our working memory rather what occurs is that individuals hold only a few concepts related to a task within their working memory and then use those as indicators to retrieve the information from long term memory (Licata, 2009).
This process which they described as “long term working memory” can actually be compared to the card catalog within a library which stores information regarding particular books and then directs people to which specific shelf they are located (Gobet, 2000). This is a faster and more effective system as compared to merely stacking all the books within a library on tables and expecting people to find exactly what they are looking for.
Baddeley and Hitch (1974) multi-component model
The second model for understanding the processes involved in working memory is the Baddeley and Hitch (1974) multi-component model which states that working memory operates via a system of “slave systems” and a central controller which supervises the transmission and coordination of information (RepovŠ & Baddeley, 2006).
The first “slave system” of the Baddeley and Hitch (1974) model is called the phonological loop which stores the sound of language. This system operates via a method of continuous repetition where in order to prevent the decay of accumulated words, phrases, meanings etc. the system continuously repeats the content thus refreshing it and ensuring that a person doesn’t forget it.
For example, remembering people’s names, numbers and associated information regarding a particular individual is governed by this system (RepovŠ & Baddeley, 2006). The second “slave system” is called the visual-spatial sketchpad which is involved in the storage and retrieval of visual and spatial information. Aspects related to this system come in form of visual images such as colors, shapes and the location of various objects and places of interest
(Baddeley, Allen & Hitch, 2011). Facilitating the proper operation of both systems in the Baddeley and Hitch (1974) model is the central executive system which is responsible for directing the processes related to systematizing information towards relevant processes while at the same time minimizes or outright eliminates inappropriate or irrelevant information from being disseminated (Baddeley, Allen & Hitch, 2011).
It must also be noted that under this particular model the central executive also handles the delegation of processes when more than one activity is being done at the same time.
Cowan model
The last model for explaining how working memory functions is the Cowan model which is rather unique in that it considers working memory as not being a separate system but is actually part of long term memory unlike other models and explanations which indicate a separation between the two (Sörqvist & Rönnberg, 2012).
Combining the Concepts
One way of combining the various models into a cohesive whole is to consider that working memory is indeed the result of retrieval mechanisms as indicated by the Ericsson and Kintsch (1995) model however by integrating the Baddeley and Hitch (1974) model we can come to understand that these retrieval mechanisms are in fact part of the central executive as described by Baddeley and Hitch.
As such it can be assumed that memory is the direct result of a complex relationship between retrieval mechanisms, the central executive and the slave systems which comprise the long term storage of memories which are only retrieved when necessary via “memory triggers” within working memory (Hamamé et al., 2012).
When combined with the Cowan model it can be assumed that working memory and long term memory are indeed integrated with working memory acting as a means of triggering long term memory to function thus indicating some form of inherent connection between the two.
Reference List
Baddeley, A. D., Allen, R. J., & Hitch, G. J. (2011). Binding in visual working memory: The role of the episodic buffer. Neuropsychologia, 49(6), 1393-1400.
Gobet, F. (2000). Retrieval structures and schemata: A brief reply to Ericsson and Kintsch. British Journal Of Psychology, 91(4), 591.
Hamamé, C. M., Vidal, J. R., Ossandón, T., Jerbi, K., Dalal, S. S., Minotti, L., &… Lachaux, J. (2012). Reading the mind’s eye: Online detection of visuo-spatial working memory and visual imagery in the inferior temporal lobe. Neuroimage, 59(1), 872-879.
Licata, I. (2009). A Dynamical Model for Information Retrieval and Emergence of Scale-Free Clusters in a Long Term Memory Network. Emergence: Complexity & Organization, 11(1), 48-57.
RepovŠ, G. G., & Baddeley, A. A. (2006). The multi-component model of working memory: Explorations in experimental cognitive psychology. Neuroscience, 139(1), 5-21.
Sörqvist, P., & Rönnberg, J. (2012). Episodic Long-Term Memory of Spoken Discourse Masked by Speech: What Is the Role for Working Memory Capacity?. Journal Of Speech, Language & Hearing Research, 55(1), 210-218.