Question

Getting information into memory is called _________; getting information out of memory is called _________. A. storage; retrieval B. encoding; storage C. encoding; retrieval D. storage; encoding

Short answer

Answer: Encoding and Retrieval

Step-by-step solution

Analyze Option A

Option A states that getting information into memory is called storage and getting information out of memory is called retrieval. While retrieval is the correct term for getting information out of memory, storage is not correct for putting information into memory. So, this option is incorrect.

Analyze Option B

Option B states that getting information into memory is called encoding and getting information out of memory is called storage. In this case, encoding is the right term for putting information into memory, but storage is not correct for getting information out of memory. So, this option is also incorrect.

Analyze Option C

Option C states that getting information into memory is called encoding and getting information out of memory is called retrieval. This option correctly matches the processes: encoding is the process of putting information into memory, while retrieval is the process of getting information out of memory. Thus, this is the correct answer.

Analyze Option D

Option D states that getting information into memory is called storage and getting information out of memory is called encoding. Both terms are not correctly matched with their respective processes, so this option is incorrect.

Final Answer

The correct answer is Option C. "Getting information into memory is called encoding; getting information out of memory is called retrieval."

Key concepts

Encoding

Encoding is the first critical step of the memory process. Imagine you are highlighting important parts of your favorite book. Encoding is similar, but instead of using highlighters, your brain uses senses and attention. When you encounter information, your brain has to convert it into a "code" or form that it can store. This transformation is what we call encoding.

There are different types of encoding:

• Visual Encoding - This relates to the sight and images you see. Imagine you remember a friend's face after not seeing them for a long time.
• Acoustic Encoding - This involves sounds and spoken words. Think about recalling a catchy song or someone's name after hearing it.
• Semantic Encoding - This type relates to the meaning of words, sentences, and ideas. When you remember what you learned in your history class, that's semantic encoding at work.

Encoding isn't just one-size-fits-all. It relies on your focus and how effectively you use your senses to absorb the information.

Retrieval

Retrieval is the process of accessing information from your memory when you need it. Think of it as looking for a specific file on a giant hard drive. When you successfully retrieve data, you can use it in real-life scenarios, like recalling facts during an exam.

However, retrieval isn't always a simple task. There can be hurdles; sometimes the information we want seems to be just "at the tip of our tongue." This is often because of how and when the memory was encoded and stored.

Effective retrieval can depend on several factors:

• Retrieval Cues - These are hints or prompts that help you remember. Smelling a certain scent might remind you of a past holiday.
• Context-Dependent Memory - Sometimes, being in the same setting where you learned something can aid recall. Think about remembering your lecture by sitting in the same seat.
• State-Dependent Memory - Mood and state of mind can affect retrieval. If you felt happy when learning a song, being happy again might help you remember the lyrics.

Retrieval is crucial because it allows your stored memories to come back to life, enabling you to apply your knowledge.

Storage

Storage refers to how information is maintained in your memory over time. It's akin to a library storing books, ensuring they are safe and ready to be accessed when needed.

There are different types of storage based on duration:

• Sensory Memory - This is a very short-term storage, typically lasting up to a couple of seconds. It happens instantaneously and helps you retain impressions of sensory information.
• Short-Term Memory (STM) - Also known as working memory; this system temporarily holds information for about 15-30 seconds. It’s like jotting down a quick note.
• Long-Term Memory (LTM) - This type of storage can last indefinitely. It's like a vast archive that can include personal experiences, factual knowledge, and skills.

Storage is essential for our ability to learn and retain information over time. How well we store information affects how easy it will be to retrieve it later on.