Outline and evaluate the working memory model

One of the strengths of the working memory model is that there is evidence for the existence of the key components of this model of memory. For example, Baddeley et al. demonstrated the existence of the visuo-spatial sketchpad. In the study the participants had to track a moving light with a pointer whilst visualising the letter F (task 1) or doing a verbal task (Task 2). Participants found task 1 harder than task 2. Tracking and letter imagery tasks were competing for the limited resources of the visuo-spatial scratch pad.

Another strength of the working memory model is that it has great explanatory power, for example psychologists have been able to explain that we can function with more than 1 cognitive task simultaneously as two components work together. Moreover, the concept of working memory is one of the means by which schizophrenia can be diagnosed. Park et al, reviewed a number of cases studied and concluded that patients with schizophrenia had problems with their working memory.

One major weakness of the working memory model is that it does not give adequate explanation for the CE. The model suggests that the central executive allocates information which seems to be the same as attention. Many believe it must sub-divided into different components rather than being an unitary component. The case study of EVR suggests that the central executive must be sub divided. EVR had a cerebral tumour removed after which he performed well on tests requiring reasoning, however his decision making skills were poor which suggested that the CE was not wholly intact.