Question

What type of memory allows us to perform skills, such as tying our shoes, automatically once we have mastered them? a. explicit memory b. declarative memory c. procedural memory d. echoic memory

Short answer

Answer: c. procedural memory.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Memory Types

First, we need to understand the different types of memory options given in the question. Explicit memory is memory that requires conscious thought, such as recalling what you had for dinner last night. Declarative memory is a type of explicit memory that deals with facts and information. Echoic memory is a type of sensory memory related to hearing. Procedural memory, on the other hand, is involved in motor skills and once it is mastered, it occurs automatically without conscious thought.

Matching Memory to Skills

Next, we match the explanation of each memory type to the skill mentioned in the question - tying shoes automatically once mastered. Tying shoes does not require conscious thought once it's learned, which means it relates to a kind of memory that deals with automatic skills.

Selecting the Correct Answer

Considering the definitions and matching them to the process of automatically performing a skill, procedural memory is the memory related to the performance of skills like tying shoes without conscious effort. Therefore, the answer is 'c. procedural memory'.

Key concepts

Types of Memory

Our brains have different types of memory, each serving a unique purpose. Memory can be broadly classified into several categories, with each type being essential for various tasks and functions.

• Explicit Memory: This involves memories that require conscious recollection. Think about remembering a phone number or an event. Explicit memory can further be divided into declarative memory, which entails facts and events.
• Declarative Memory: A subset of explicit memory, this type is all about the knowledge we can verbalize, such as the capital of a country or the structure of a sentence.
• Echoic Memory: This is a short-lived sensory memory pertaining to the sounds we've heard. It helps us to recall spoken words for a brief period even after they have ceased.
• Procedural Memory: Unlike explicit and declarative memories which involve conscious thought, procedural memory allows us to perform actions automatically, like swinging a bat or playing the piano once we've mastered them.

Procedural memory stands out because it lets us execute activities without needing to remember the steps consciously. This automaticity is due to repetitive learning and neural connections that are strengthened over time.

Automatic Skills

Automatic skills move beyond needing our conscious mind to guide every action. These skills are honed to operate with little to no conscious thought, allowing us to perform them seamlessly in our daily lives.

When first learning a new skill, whether it's typing on a keyboard or riding a bicycle, it requires a lot of mental effort and coordination. However, as we practice, these actions become automatic. This shifts the driving force from conscious effort to procedural memory.

The transition from effortful to automatic happens through repetition and practice, strengthening connections in our brain.

• This allows us to focus on other tasks while performing the skill, like chatting while driving.
• It frees up cognitive resources, enabling multitasking.

Ultimately, automatic skills are an important part of our lives, helping us carry out numerous activities daily without needing to consciously think about each one.

Motor Skills

Motor skills are an integral part of our daily functioning and are closely tied to procedural memory. They encompass the ability to make voluntary movements that are coordinated and purposeful. Broadly, motor skills are divided into two categories:

• Fine Motor Skills: These involve smaller actions using small muscle groups, such as writing with a pencil, sewing, or buttoning a shirt.
• Gross Motor Skills: These involve larger movements that require the use of big muscle groups. Walking, swimming, and jumping are examples of gross motor skills.

Both sets of skills become automatic through practice and repetition. For example, once you've mastered riding a bicycle, the coordination between pedaling, steering, and balancing becomes second nature.

Motor skills development is crucial for learning new tasks throughout one’s life, aiding in everything from sports to everyday tasks of self-care. Understanding and improving motor skills can enhance both recreational and occupational activities, making them essential for efficient functioning.