Evaluate the multi-store model of memory (Atkinson and Shiffrin, 1968). - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 6 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 6
Evaluate the multi-store model of memory (Atkinson and Shiffrin, 1968).
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Evaluate the multi-store model of memory (Atkinson and Shiffrin, 1968). - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 6 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe the sensory register (SR)
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Answer
The sensory register (SR) acts as a buffer for sensory input from the five senses, allowing the brain to briefly hold this information using specific modalities. This stage helps to filter out unnecessary information and direct what is important for further processing.
Step 2
Explain the short-term store (STS)
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The short-term store (STS) has a limited capacity ranging from 5 to 9 items, and it primarily retains information for a limited duration of about 20 to 30 seconds. This aspect plays a crucial role in our ability to hold and manipulate information over short periods.
Step 3
Outline Atkinson and Shiffrin's contributions
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Answer
Atkinson and Shiffrin (1968) argued that the STS processes information acoustically, emphasizing the importance of auditory encoding in maintaining information in this stage.
Step 4
Discuss long-term store (LTS) characteristics
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The long-term store (LTS) is theorized to retain information indefinitely through semantic encoding. This suggests that information can be consolidated over time and retrieved when needed, significantly shaping our understanding of memory.
Step 5
Evaluate the model's reductionist approach
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The multi-store model can be considered reductionist as it simplifies human memory to a mere system of information processing. Critics argue that this approach overlooks the complexities of memory and the active processes involved.
Step 6
Discuss findings by Peterson and Peterson (1959)
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Peterson and Peterson (1959) demonstrated that participants could recall trigrams after intervals of 15-18 seconds, revealing that without rehearsal, memory decays rapidly in the STS.
Step 7
Consider Baddeley and Hitch's (1974) critique
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Baddeley and Hitch (1974) contended that the STS can actively manipulate information rather than just passively storing it, contradicting the notion that the STS serves solely as a bridge between sensory inputs and LTM.
Step 8
Summarize how other research supports the model
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Research by Bahrick et al. (1975) indicates that identification of names from high school yearbooks can remain accurate for decades, suggesting that LTM can maintain information for extended periods, supporting the retention aspect of the model.
