Short-term memory

Definition

Short-term memory refers to the system that temporarily holds and processes a limited amount of information for a brief period, typically around 15 to 30 seconds. This type of memory is crucial for immediate tasks, allowing individuals to retain and manipulate information actively. It serves as a bridge between sensory input and long-term memory, playing a vital role in learning, decision-making, and motivated behaviors.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Short-term memory can typically hold about 7±2 items at once, a concept known as Miller's Law.
2. Information in short-term memory can be retained longer through rehearsal, which involves repeating the information to keep it active.
3. The prefrontal cortex is primarily involved in short-term memory processes, especially when it comes to working with and manipulating information.
4. Short-term memory is sensitive to distraction; interruptions can lead to forgetting information quickly.
5. Different types of information, such as verbal or visual stimuli, can be processed simultaneously in short-term memory, but the capacity remains limited.

Review Questions

• How does short-term memory interact with long-term memory in the process of learning?
  • Short-term memory acts as a temporary storage space where information is held before it is either forgotten or encoded into long-term memory. During learning, when new information is presented, it first enters short-term memory. Through processes like rehearsal or encoding strategies, this information can then be transferred into long-term storage for later retrieval. This interaction highlights the importance of short-term memory in effective learning and retention of new knowledge.
• Discuss the role of the prefrontal cortex in short-term memory and its implications for motivated behaviors.
  • The prefrontal cortex plays a crucial role in managing short-term memory by allowing individuals to hold and manipulate information necessary for decision-making and goal-directed actions. This area of the brain is involved in working memory functions, which are vital for planning and executing motivated behaviors. Damage or dysfunction in this region can impair an individual's ability to maintain focus on tasks, affecting their motivation and performance.
• Evaluate the impact of distractions on short-term memory retention and its relevance to behavior management strategies.
  • Distractions significantly reduce the effectiveness of short-term memory retention by disrupting the encoding process of new information. When attention is diverted, it becomes challenging to keep relevant details active in memory, leading to increased forgetfulness. Understanding this relationship allows for the development of behavior management strategies that minimize distractions in environments where effective learning and motivation are essential, thereby enhancing cognitive performance and facilitating better outcomes.

Related terms

Working Memory: A cognitive system that actively holds and manipulates information in short-term memory to complete tasks and solve problems.

Long-term Memory: The system that stores information for extended periods, ranging from hours to a lifetime, encompassing knowledge, skills, and experiences.

Encoding: The process of converting information into a format that can be stored in memory, which is essential for transferring data from short-term to long-term memory.