Question

For each of the following, write a paragraph describing each of the types of memory and providing an original example of how you use each.

1. Short term memory (process and example)
2. Long term memory (process and example)
3. Sensory memory process (process and example)

Answer 1

Short term memory: This is the primary memory that an individual is aware of. The information that enters the short term memory comes from paying attention to the sensory memory. Short term memory is very brief and limited to seven plus or minus two items. Short term memory is different from working memory as working memory involves storing and organizing of information while short term memory simply stores temporary information. Since the information in the short term memory decays fast, it is important to rehearse the information. A very common example here is when we try to remember mobile numbers. If we do not have any place to write down the number then we try to rehearse it again and again so that we do not forget it.

Long term memory: This memory stores information for an extended long period of time. The information in this memory is out of consciousness and thus needs to be recalled in order to bring it into awareness. Memories that we frequently recall or access become stronger with time. Long term memory involves explicit memory and implicit memory. Explicit memory involves all information that is present in our awareness. Explicit memory involves episodic and semantic memories as well. Episodic memory involves knowledge about specific events or episodes and semantic memory stores knowledge about the world. Implicit memory involves procedural memory that is mostly unconscious. This memory has all processes stored within. An example of long term memory can be recalling an important day of your life. You are able to recall what all happened that day, how did you feel, what interactions took place between you and other people and what made that day special and so on.

Sensory memory: This memory is very short memory that involves taking sensory input from the environment. Sensory memory registers information from all the senses. Each sense has its own memory. For instance, iconic memory is the visual sensory memory that involves remembering images. Echoic memory is short auditory sensory memory that stores sounds. Haptic memory is very short memory for touch. An example of this memory is the ability to look at any object presented to you for say some seconds and yet being able to remember how the object looked like.

Hope this answer helps!