Retrieval cues

Retrieval cues

Retrieval failure = information is in the LTM but the retrieval cues are not there so we can't remember it, when we store memories we also store the places

Context = retrieval cues may be based on context

- the setting or situation

- the way info is processed

- encoding is more likely when encoding context matches that of retrieval

Evidence 1 = Abernethy

Students did better on tests when they sat them in the same room they learnt the information

Evidence 2 = Tulving

Encoding specificity principle, info would be available when the retrieval cues were present

Evidence 3 = Miles and Hardman

- Participants had to remember and recall info while resting or exercising, remembered best when they were doing the same for encoding and recall

Evidence 4 = Mead and Ball

Looked at effect of music on recall by playing major or minor keys, remembered best if they had the same for encoding and recall

Evidence 5 = Godwin et al

If people encoded information when drunk they were more likely to recall it when they were drunk again e.g. if they hid money