Different Types of Human Memory

The process whereby memories are forged into the mental system is a remarkable one that is often misunderstood. But by studying the nature of memory, we gain a higher insight in to the intricate workings of this most vital aspect of the human brain. Some compare the human memory to a tape recorder-yet it is not so simple. While memory can serve as a retainer for key data that we want to "re-play" over and over again, it is a more dynamic and complex mechanism. In addition to storing information, it also allows us to recall feelings, sensations, images, as well as carry out basic functions such as talking.

Different Types of Human Memory

Different Types of Human Memory

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Different Types of Human Memory

Different Types of Human Memory

Since human memory is such a complex system, it cannot be nailed down to an exact science. In fact, cognitive psychologists working in thefield of memory often have disagreements. What has been established is that there are three main types of human memory – sensory, short term and long term-plus a fourth related faculty called the working memory.

When we speak of "sensory memory", "we are referring to the few split seconds that follows the initial perception of an object. If you are able to briefly look at something and immediately memorize its details, then that is an instance of sensory memory. Usually, in these cases, when you are only able to see something for a few split seconds, you might feel like you saw a lot more than you are able to describe.

Some of the data that is perceived in a sensory memory will subsequently be transferred to a short term> memory. We call short term memory the ability to recall something from several seconds to a minute ago.

There is also a type of memory that is referred to as working memory. It can be viewed as a form of short term memory, in that it refers to the limited store that is needed in order for certain mental tasks to be performed. Whereas short term memory is rooted in duration, working memory is defined by purpose. Baddeley's Model of Working Memory defines three components to this type of memory -the verbal store, the Visual-spatial sketchpad, and the central executive, which determines control and rehearsal.

Finally, there is long term memory. Unlike short term and sensory memories, which disappear in abrief amount of time, long term refers to memories that can be stored for a period of up to several years. Psychologists disagree on how long term memory works. Some argue that a long term memory remains in the brain forever, but this is impossible to prove, as there has never been a human being who has lived forever!

While it was once thought that there was no real determining factor between what made in short term memory and a long term one, research has since established that the brain contains numerous systems of memory and that information is constantly being transferred among these various systems. Hence, the ongoing research in to the mysterious nature of how memory works.

Different Types of Human Memory