Question

The three functions of memory are ______. a. automatic processing, effortful processing, and storage, b. encoding, processing, and storage c. automatic processing, effortful processing, and retrieval, d. encoding, storage, and retrieval.

Short answer

d. encoding, storage, and retrieval.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Terminology

Memory plays a huge role in learning and each function is associated with a specific process: \n- Encoding refers to the process of acquiring and entering information into memory. \n- Storage is the process of maintaining and keeping hold of that information. \n- Retrieval is the ability to call or retrieve that information when needed.

Match the Functions with Options

Noting these definitions, check the options given in the question and compare each one with the defined functions: \n- Option 'a' talks about automatic processing and effortful processing instead of encoding, so it cannot be correct. \n- Option 'b' contains encoding and storage, but processing does not fit as a stand-alone function. \n- Option 'c' contains automatic processing and effortful processing like option 'a', and although retrieval is a function, the other two terms make this option incorrect. \n- Option 'd' contains all three functions; encoding, storage and retrieval.

Choose Correct Option

The only option that contains all three correct functions of memory (encoding, storage, and retrieval) is option 'd'. Therefore, the correct answer to the question 'The three functions of memory are' is 'encoding, storage, and retrieval.'

Key concepts

Memory Encoding

Memory encoding is the first essential step in creating new memories. It involves translating the information we receive from our senses into a form that our brain can process and store. This process can happen either automatically or through more effortful processing. Automatic processing occurs without us being consciously aware of it—for instance, remembering the route to school after going a few times. Effortful processing, on the other hand, requires attention and conscious work, such as when we study for a test.

For example, when you meet someone new, encoding involves taking in visual information of their face, auditory information from their name, and associating these details together. This formation of a memory trace is crucial because without encoding, information cannot move to the next stage which is memory storage.

Memory Storage

Following encoding, memory storage allows the preservation of information over time for future retrieval. Memory is stored at different levels: sensory memory, which lasts for a very brief period; short-term memory (also known as working memory), which has a limited capacity and retention timeframe; and long-term memory, which potentially has unlimited capacity and duration.

Memories in storage can range from a momentary concept, like a phone number you just learned, to a more complex and deeply encoded memory such as your childhood experiences. It is important to note that how well a memory is stored can be influenced by factors such as the level of attention given to the information, the frequency it is revisited (rehearsal), and the emotional significance it holds. Memory consolidation, which refers to the process of stabilizing a memory trace after its initial acquisition, is also a key part of memory storage.

Memory Retrieval

Memory retrieval is the ability to access and retrieve information stored in our brain. Retrieval can be a straightforward process for some memories, but quite complex for others, often depending on the nature and 'location' of the stored memory. For instance, recalling a fact for a multiple-choice test is a form of recognition, a type of retrieval that involves identifying information in the presence of cues.

Another type is recall, which is retrieving information without cues, like answering an open-ended question. Effective retrieval can be influenced by multiple factors including the context and emotional state—both at the time of encoding the memory and at the time of attempting retrieval. This is called state-dependent or context-dependent memory. Sometimes, we are unable to retrieve a memory due to reasons such as interference or simply not having paid enough attention during the encoding stage.