Multi-Store Model of Memory

Multi-Store Model of Memory

1. Atkinson and Shiffrin claim that;

   • STM and LTM still exist
   • STM and LTM are separate stores.
   • They are also separate stores

2. Capacity - HOW much information can be held

   • LTM - unlimited
   • STM - 7 +/- 2 items

3. Duration - how long things can be stored in the memory

   • STM - 18 to 30 seconds
   • LTM - lifetime

4. Encoding - how the information is stored

   • LTM - semantic
   • STM - acoustic

5. The Multi - Store Model of Memory Diagram

6. Strengths

   • 1) There's research to support it. One study is of HM - shows that STM and LTM are separate. HM could remember everything before surgery (LTM).
     • but then he didnt have the ability to create new memories. Its a strength because the research supports the first two claims of the MSM.
   • 2) Contributed to Scientific Progress. First human memory model. Research to support it. laid the foundation for research that was then to be follow
     • For example, Baddeley's research focused on the STM of the MSM.

7. Weaknesses

   • 1) Overemphasises the role of rehearsal. Not all info needs to be rehearsed to transfer to LTM e.g. flashbulb memories of significant events.
     • could be that emotional events are transferred straight to LTM. Weakness because it shows things dont need to pass through the STM to the LTM.
   • 2) No longer regarded as separate stores. the Working Memory Model suggets that the STM has three separate stores, Central Executive,
     • Phonological Loop and Visio Spatial Sketchpad