57. Short-Term Memory vs. Long-Term Memory: Principles and Differences

 

57. Cognitive and Learning Psychology - Short-Term Memory vs. Long-Term Memory: Principles and Differences

Human memory is primarily divided into two systems: short-term memory and long-term memory.
Short-term memory temporarily stores information, while long-term memory retains significant information for extended periods. These two memory systems are deeply interconnected and play vital roles in learning, problem-solving, and daily activities.
In this post, we’ll explore the differences between short-term and long-term memory, how they work, and ways to enhance memory.

 

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1. Definitions of Short-Term and Long-Term Memory

(1) Short-Term Memory

• Definition: Stores information for a brief period with limited capacity.
• Example: Remembering a phone number for a few seconds before dialing.
• Characteristics:
• Storage Time: Approximately 20–30 seconds.
• Capacity: 7±2 units of information (Miller’s Law).
• Vulnerability: Easily fades without repetition or reinforcement.

(2) Long-Term Memory

• Definition: Stores information for extended periods, with almost unlimited capacity.
• Example: Riding a bicycle learned in childhood or memories of school friends.
• Characteristics:
• Storage Time: Hours to a lifetime.
• Capacity: Virtually unlimited (theoretically).
• Reinforcement: Strengthened by emotional connections and repeated practice.

 

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2. How Short-Term Memory Works

(1) Transition from Sensory Memory

• Process: External stimuli pass through sensory memory, and significant information transitions into short-term memory.
• Example: Focusing on a specific voice in a noisy environment.

(2) Working Memory

• Short-term memory is a part of working memory, which temporarily holds and manipulates information.
• Example: Storing numbers in your mind while solving a calculation.

(3) Limitations of Short-Term Memory

• Capacity Limitations: Can only handle a small amount of information at a time.
• Temporal Limitations: Information quickly fades without repetition or focus.

 

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3. How Long-Term Memory Works

(1) Stages of Memory Storage

• Encoding: Transforming information into long-term memory.
• Method: Assigning meaning or finding associations.
• Example: Creating a story to connect details instead of rote memorization.
• Storage: Long-term memories are stored in the cerebral cortex.
• TIP: Repetition and sufficient sleep strengthen storage.
• Retrieval: The process of recalling stored information when needed.
• TIP: Retrieval practice, such as taking quizzes, enhances memory recall.

(2) Types of Long-Term Memory

• Explicit Memory: Information that can be consciously recalled.
• Semantic Memory: Facts and concepts (e.g., capital cities).
• Episodic Memory: Personal experiences (e.g., a family trip).
• Implicit Memory: Unconscious memory of skills and habits.
• Example: Playing the piano or riding a bike.

 

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4. Differences Between Short-Term and Long-Term Memory

 

Aspect	Short-Term Memory	Long-Term Memory
Storage Time	20–30 seconds	Hours to a lifetime
Storage Capacity	Limited (7±2 items)	Virtually unlimited
Vulnerability	Fades quickly without repetition	Strengthened by emotion and practice
Function	Processes and manipulates current information	Preserves information and experiences

 

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5. How to Enhance Memory

(1) Strengthening Short-Term Memory

• Focus Attention: Avoid multitasking and concentrate on one task at a time.
• Chunking: Group information into smaller units.
• Example: Break numbers into 123-456-789.
• Repetition: Repeat information to transfer it into long-term memory.

(2) Enhancing Long-Term Memory

• Association: Connect new information with existing knowledge.
• Example: Link words to images or create a narrative.
• Sleep: Adequate sleep promotes memory storage and recall.
• Retrieval Practice: Regularly recall learned material.
• TIP: Use flashcards or quizzes to reinforce memory.

 

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6. The Relationship Between Short-Term and Long-Term Memory

• Short-term and long-term memory are not independent but interrelated.
• Process: Information from short-term memory transitions into long-term memory through repetition and encoding.
• TIP: Since only important information transfers to long-term memory, focus and prioritization are crucial.

 

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Conclusion: Understanding and Utilizing Memory

Short-term and long-term memory serve different roles but are essential for learning and enhancing the quality of life.
By recognizing the limitations of short-term memory and effectively transferring information into long-term memory, you can improve both learning and memory skills.
Start developing habits today to strengthen your memory and enrich your knowledge and experiences.