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Short-term memory

Last updated on Sunday, April 28, 2024.

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Short-term memory, also known as working memory, is a limited capacity system that temporarily holds and manipulates information for a brief period of time, typically up to 30 seconds. It is crucial for tasks such as reasoning, comprehension, and decision-making, allowing us to actively process and store information while performing cognitive tasks.

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The Concept of Short-Term Memory in Cognitive Science

Short-term memory, also known as working memory, plays a crucial role in cognitive psychology and cognitive science. It is the system responsible for the temporary storage and manipulation of information necessary for various cognitive tasks. Unlike long-term memory, which has a vast capacity and can hold information for a prolonged period, short-term memory has a limited capacity and retains information for a brief duration.

The Capacity of Short-Term Memory

The capacity of short-term memory is estimated to be around seven (plus or minus two) items, according to the famous research by psychologist George A. Miller. This concept, known as Miller's Law, suggests that the average human can hold between 5 to 9 pieces of information in short-term memory at a given time. However, this capacity can be affected by factors such as the complexity of the information or individual differences in cognitive abilities.

The Function of Short-Term Memory

Short-term memory is crucial for tasks that require immediate processing and manipulation of information. For example, when solving a math problem in your head, short-term memory helps you retain the numbers and operations temporarily until you arrive at the solution. It also plays a vital role in language comprehension, decision-making, and problem-solving processes.

Neuroscience of Short-Term Memory

Neuroscientific studies have identified brain regions involved in the storage and manipulation of information in short-term memory. The prefrontal cortex, in particular, is known to be critical for working memory tasks. Neural networks within this region are responsible for maintaining and updating information in short-term memory, allowing us to hold and manipulate data for immediate use.

In conclusion, short-term memory is a fundamental component of cognitive processes, enabling us to retain and work with information temporarily. Understanding the mechanisms of short-term memory not only sheds light on how our cognitive system functions but also has practical implications for education, technology, and other areas where cognitive abilities are important.

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