Outline and evaluate the Multi Store Model of memory

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Outline and evaluate the Multi Store Model of memory

Atkinson and Shiffrin (1968) proposed the structural model of memory, known as the Multi Store Model. The model is linear meaning the information passes from one store to another in a fixed sequence. This model explained their theory of memory in 3 main separate stores; sensory memory; short term memory and long term memory. The model suggests that in order for information to move from the sensory memory to the STM, we must pay attention to the information, this then must be maintenance rehearsed – this is when the information is repeated multiple times - or elaborative rehearsed - repeated and given a meaning too, this then allows the information to be transferred from the STM to the LTM. The model also included details on how the information in the stores was encoded, for example STM was encoded through visual & auditory information and LTM was encoded through semantic information. The model also specifies the capacity of the two main stores, STM having the capacity of 7+/-2 and the LTM is limitless. The model also goes on to suggest that the STM lasts for a maximum of 30 seconds whereas the LTM is anything over 30 seconds. Also included in the model is the proposed way in which information is moved from the STM to the LTM – either through maintenance rehearsal or elaborative rehearsal. The model also explains how information can be forgotten; in STM information can become displaced by other units of information as the capacity is 7+/-2, another way information could be lost is through decay. This is also the case in LTM however it may take a longer time for information to be lost through decay as the capacity is higher than in STM.

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There is evidence to support the model in that it suggests there are two separate stores. Shallice and Warrington (1970) reported the case of K.F. who as a result of an accident had a reduced STM of only one or two digits and a recency effect of only one item - yet his memory of events before the accident was relatively normal. This seems to support the MSM idea that the stores are separate as one, the LTM, can function even though the STM has become damaged. Glanzer and Cunitz’s study also shows this two as the first words of ...

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