COGNITION: PSYC-316 DISCUSSION #5
Learning objectives: By the end of this presentation you will be able to…
define working memory
describe the characteristics of working memory and contrast it to the leaky-bucket conception of short-term memory
recognize examples of working memory
describe the n-back task and identify features of working memory that the task illustrates
describe findings from research using the n-back task to study cognitive decline with age and cognitive improvement with practice.
Overview of Working Memory
I. Introduction To Working Memory
A. Definition
working memory- a limited capacity system for temporary storage and manipulation of information for complex tasks such as comprehension, learning and reasoning
B. Characteristics That distinguish it from the Leaky Bucket
it is dynamic (changeable)
it has multiple components
it both holds and processes information
in particular cases, it can multitask
C. An Example
Keep the following numbers in mind 7, 1, 4, and 9 while reading…
Overview of Working Memory
Baddeley reasoned that if STM had a limited storage capacity, then filling up that capacity with one task, should prevent completion of another task. But he found that people could hold a short string of numbers in memory while reading. Can you perform such tasks simultaneously? What are the numbers you were asked to keep in mind?
Overview of Working Memory
I. Introduction To Working Memory
A. Definition
B. Characteristics That distinguish it from the Leaky Bucket
C. An Example
D. A Second Example: The N-Back Task
Task is to keep track of letters presented and indicate whether each one matches the letter presented N-positions earlier in the series.
Demonstrates the maintenance and manipulation of information in “working” memory.
demo the N-back here.
Performance decreases with age.
Practice result in short-lived improvement (as do other such tasks common among memory training programs like luminosity).
Overview of Working Memory