On what grounds are STM and LTM distinguished?

How to Approach

This question requires a comparative analysis of Short-Term Memory (STM) and Long-Term Memory (LTM). The answer should focus on key distinctions across capacity, duration, coding, and neural substrates. A structured approach comparing these aspects in a clear and concise manner is crucial. Mentioning relevant models like the Atkinson-Shiffrin model will add value. The answer should be within the 100-word limit, prioritizing the most salient differences.

Model Answer

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Introduction

Memory, a fundamental cognitive process, is broadly categorized into Short-Term Memory (STM) and Long-Term Memory (LTM). While both are crucial for information processing, they differ significantly in their characteristics. STM acts as a temporary storage system, holding a limited amount of information for a brief period, while LTM provides a relatively permanent and limitless storehouse of knowledge and experiences. Understanding these distinctions is vital for comprehending cognitive functioning.

Distinguishing STM and LTM

STM and LTM are differentiated based on several key factors:

Capacity: STM has a limited capacity (around 7 +/- 2 chunks – Miller, 1956), whereas LTM has a virtually unlimited capacity.
Duration: STM lasts for a short duration (seconds to minutes) without rehearsal, while LTM can hold information for a lifetime.
Coding: STM primarily uses acoustic/phonological coding, while LTM utilizes semantic coding.
Neural Substrates: STM relies on temporary activation patterns in the prefrontal cortex, while LTM involves structural changes in the hippocampus and cortex.

The Atkinson-Shiffrin model (1968) illustrates this sequential flow of information from sensory memory to STM and then to LTM, highlighting the differing properties of each stage.

Feature	Short-Term Memory (STM)	Long-Term Memory (LTM)
Capacity	Limited (7 +/- 2 chunks)	Unlimited
Duration	Seconds to minutes	Lifetime
Coding	Acoustic/Phonological	Semantic
Neural Basis	Prefrontal Cortex (temporary activation)	Hippocampus & Cortex (structural changes)

Conclusion

In essence, STM serves as a temporary workspace for current information, while LTM functions as a vast repository of past experiences and knowledge. These distinctions in capacity, duration, coding, and neural basis underscore their fundamentally different roles in cognitive processing. Understanding these differences is crucial for studying memory disorders and developing effective learning strategies.

Answer Length

This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.

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Additional Resources

Key Definitions

Chunking

Chunking is a process where individual pieces of information are bound together into a meaningful larger unit, increasing the capacity of short-term memory.

Anterograde Amnesia

Anterograde amnesia is the inability to form new memories after the onset of amnesia, while retaining memories from before the event.

Key Statistics

The average human can hold approximately 7 plus or minus 2 items in short-term memory.

Source: Miller, G. A. (1956). The magical number seven, plus or minus two.

Studies suggest that approximately 10% of the population experiences some form of significant memory impairment.

Source: Alzheimer's Association (Knowledge cutoff: 2023)

Examples

Remembering a Phone Number

Trying to remember a 10-digit phone number requires utilizing STM. Breaking it down into chunks (e.g., area code, prefix, line number) makes it easier to retain than trying to remember all ten digits as a single unit.

Frequently Asked Questions

▶Is STM a prerequisite for LTM?

While not strictly a prerequisite, STM often serves as a gateway to LTM. Information must be attended to and processed in STM before it can be encoded and consolidated into LTM. However, some information can bypass STM and go directly into LTM (e.g., emotionally significant events).

Topics Covered

Cognitive PsychologyMemoryShort-Term MemoryLong-Term MemoryEncodingRetrieval

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