Specification

  • The multi-store model of memory (Atkinson and Shiffrin, 1968), including information processing, encoding, storage, retrieval, capacity and duration.

The multi-store model of memory is a theoretical framework of memory processing proposed by Richard Atkinson and Richard Shiffrin in 1968. It consists of three separate memory stores:

  1. Sensory memory: A temporary store that holds information from the five senses (sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell) for a brief period of time (up to a few seconds). If attention is paid to the information, it can be transferred to the next store.
  2. Short-term memory (STM): A temporary store that holds information for a brief period of time (up to 30 seconds) and is limited in capacity (only able to hold around 7 items). The information can be rehearsed (repeated) to extend its time in STM or encoded into long-term memory.
  3. Long-term memory (LTM): A permanent store for information that can be retrieved for an extended period of time. It has a large capacity and information can be stored for years or even a lifetime. The information can be encoded into LTM through repetition, elaboration, and organisation.

This model suggests that information enters the sensory memory, where it can be lost if not attended to, or transferred to the STM where it can be rehearsed and held for a short time. If the information is rehearsed or meaningfully encoded, it can be transferred to the LTM where it can be stored permanently. This model provides a basic structure of how information is processed and stored in memory.

Evaluation

The model has been criticised for its lack of detail and oversimplification of the memory process. Recent research suggests that memory is not as compartmentalised as the multi-store model suggests and that information can move between the different memory stores more easily. Additionally, the model does not account for the influence of attention, emotions, and other factors on the encoding and retrieval of memories.

Overall, while the multi-store model of memory provides a useful starting point for understanding the structure of memory, it has been largely superseded by more comprehensive and nuanced models that take into account the complex interplay of various factors in the memory process.

Past Paper Questions

  • Define the term ‘encoding’ as it is used in the multi-store model. (1) June 2019
2 Markers
  • Describe, using the multi-store model of memory, why Mahmood could not remember all 14 food items. (2) January 2017
  • Justify, using the multi-store model of memory, one conclusion that Mrs Wang could make from her study. (2) October 2019
  • Explain one weakness with Atkinson and Shiffrin’s (1968) multi-store model of memory. (2) January 2017
  • Describe what is meant by ‘information processing’ in relation to the multi-store model of memory (Atkinson and Shiffrin, 1968). (2) October 2020
  • Explain one weakness of the multi-store model of memory (Atkinson and Shiffrin, 1968) as an explanation of memory. (2) October 2020
4 Marker
  • Describe what is meant by the terms ‘capacity’ and ‘duration’. (4) January 2018
  • Explain two strengths of Atkinson and Shiffrin’s (1968) multi-store model of memory. (4) June 2019
8 Marker
  • Evaluate Atkinson and Shiffrin’s (1968) multi-store model of memory (8) June 2017
  • Discuss how the multi-store model of memory could explain the differences in Femim and Asha’s articles. (8) October 2018
12 Marker
  • Evaluate how effectively the multi-store model of memory can help Mrs Hughes cope with her everyday tasks. (12) June 2016