Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
Paivio (1971, 1986/1990, 1991) put forward a
dual-coding theory of cognition. It postulates that
performance in memory and other cognitive tasks
is mediated not only by linguistic processes but also
by a distinct nonverbal imagery model of thought.
Human sensory systems receive both verbal and
imaginal stimuli and form representational asso-
ciative structures. Verbal associations and visual
imagery can both expand on learned material;
visual and verbal information, while processed in
different ways, create separate representations of
information. Thus, researchers hold that mental
imagery supports recollection of verbal material,
when words evoke corresponding images.
Cognitive psychologists used to describe
human memory as several stores (Baddeley,
Thompson, & Buchanan, 1975; Baddeley &Hitch,
1974; Baddeley, Eysenck, & Anderson, 2009): the
sensory register that is engaging perceptual mecha-
nisms, the tasks of reasoning, decision-making,
and coordinating incoming data; the short-term
memory store with an phonological, also called
articulatory (related to speech sounds) loop for
temporary retention of speech-based material; the
visuo-spatial scratch pad for temporary retention
of visual and/or spatial material; the episodic
buffer (Baddeley, 2000); and the long-term store.
The short-term working memory is limited in the
amount of information that it can store and the
length of time it could store information. This
store can simultaneously hold for a limited time
(around twenty seconds) only a small number
(seven, plus or minus two) of information chunks.
Much of what we perceive is never recorded as
perceptual experiences in the sensory storage; only
a part of experiences absorbed through our senses
are transferred to the short-term working memory.
Some information, such as a stop sign, is instantly
perceived and unconsciously remembered. It stores
over few minutes as a temporary scratch pad our
mental imagery, perceptions, potent emotions,
conscious thoughts, feelings, and perceptions.
The long-term memory system allows for
making comparisons. A long-term memory stores
over long periods information that is partially
transferred from the short-term memory. New
links are created between neurons and old links
are strengthened in this process. In order to com-
prehend words, old memory must be used. In the
process of the language organization, information
flows from visual (reading) and auditory (listen-
ing speech) reception to areas in the left temporal
lobe for comprehension and then to frontal areas
for speech production. The questions have been
around, whether or not the long-term storage
of information may involve the separate modes
of representation, and if there is some common
integrative mechanism for concrete and abstract
materials.
In effect of studies using computerized tech-
niques, memory has been divided into declara-
tive and procedural forms. Declarative memory
includes semantic memory - one' store of primary
verbal knowledge, and episodic memory that
refers to one's specific meanings and experi-
ences. Procedural form of memory contains one's
knowledge of actions, motor functions and abili-
ties. Cognitive scientists explore, simulate, and
model the structure of semantic memory, pattern
recognition in processing data, attention, problem
solving, decision-making, and abstract thinking
that is coherent and logical. Traditional schooling
had been focused on developing memory skills.
At present, a necessity of dealing effectively with
large amount of information creates a need to
expand abilities of higher order thinking, visual-
ization, and understanding of abstract concepts.
Thought, Language, and Visuals
Imagery and verbal codes present two distinct
classes of mental representation, and thus verbal
memory and image memory are located in two
independent but interacting stores. As a form
of nonverbal processing, mental imagery seems
to be contained within the posterior lobe of the
right cerebral hemisphere. Both these systems are
involved in processing verbal material when it is
