“Memory is the process by which we encode, store and retrieve information”.
PROCESS OF MEMORY:
Memory is built on three basic processes i.e, • Encoding • Storage • Retrieval
ENCODING:
Encoding memory processes are seen as the processes which put information into the memory store. When information comes in from the external world it then goes through a process of transformation and is transformed into a code. Information from the external world can be encoded in a number of different ways. Information can be coded in a visual way, an acoustic way, a semantic way or a motor way. A motor code is information which has to be stored in the form of an action or a skill. This type of information is coded as a motor code.
STORAGE:
The information that is encoded in the encoding memory processes is then maintained or held the storage memory processes. This information is held in the form of internal representations. In terms of a more physical level of memory storage, it is believed that when memory formation occurs there is a change in the synaptic connections which form the connections between the neurons in the brain.
RETRIEVAL:
Retrieval memory processes include recognition and recall. These memory processes are involved in getting information out of the memory store. When were call we reclaim something that has been stored in our memory and bring it out into conscious awareness. Recognition is a memory process which involves searching in our memories for a match.
THREE SYSTEMS OF MEMORY: • Sensory Memory • Short-Term Memory • Long-Term Memory
SENSORY MEMORY:
The initial momentary storage of information, lasting only an instant is known as sensory memory.
SHORT-TERM MEMORY:
Memory that holds information for fifteen to twenty-five seconds is known as short-term memory.
LONG-TERM MEMORY:
Memory that stores information on a relatively permanent basis, although it may be difficult to retrieve