7.7: Storage

A schema is a mental framework that helps individuals organize and interpret information. Schemata, formed from previous experiences, influence how we process new information: how we encode it, the inferences we make, and how we retrieve it. For instance, a schema for what a typical classroom looks like might include desks, a teacher's desk, a whiteboard, and students in such an environment. This expectation helps us quickly understand and navigate new classrooms without needing to analyze each component in detail.

Schema theory posits that our long-term memory is not an exact record. Often, we cannot retrieve an exact memory but must reconstruct it from fragments. Schemata assist in this reconstruction, filling gaps based on our prior knowledge and experiences. For example, if you recall a family gathering, you might not remember every detail. Still, your schema for such events helps fill in missing parts, like assuming there was food or that certain family members were present.

Connectionism, also known as parallel distributed processing, suggests that memory is stored in the brain through connections among neurons, many of which work together to process a single memory. Unlike the idea of memories being stored in specific locations, the connectionist view sees memories as patterns of neural activity spread across different areas of the brain. For example, remembering your dog's name involves neural activity across several parts of the cerebral cortex. These neural locations, called nodes, are interconnected. When one node is sufficiently activated, it can influence another node, spreading the activation across the network.

The human cerebral cortex contains millions of neurons interconnected by hundreds of millions of synapses. This complex web of connections allows the activity of one neuron to be influenced by many others. Connectionism argues that changes in the strength of these synaptic connections are the fundamental basis of memory. The process by which these networks are strengthened and formed is known as consolidation.

Storage in memory involves the process of keeping information for future use.

Schemas are mental frameworks that help to organize and interpret information based on prior experiences. For example, a grocery store schema involves recognizing aisles, stocked shelves, and checkout counters.

During recall, schemas fill in gaps, making the retrieval process more efficient. For example, when recalling a birthday party, schemas help fill in gaps– likely a cake, singing "Happy Birthday," decorations, and gifts.

In contrast, connectionism, or parallel distributed processing, views memory as stored in the connections between neurons.

Multiple neurons work together to process a single memory. For example, recalling a childhood memory involves activating interconnected neurons across different brain regions, each adding specific details and emotions.

Memory-related neural activity is distributed across various areas of the cerebral cortex, with interconnected nodes.

Activation of one node can influence others across synapses, shaping the overall process of memory storage and retrieval.

• Schema - A mental framework aiding in the organization and interpretation of information.
• Schema Theory - Proposes our long-term memory is a reconstruction, not an exact record.
• Connectionism - A theory suggesting memory is stored through connections among neurons.
• Nodes - Neural locations in the brain that connect and influence memory.
• Consolidation - The process of strengthening and forming neural networks for memory.

• Define schema – Explain the way it organizes and interprets information (e.g., classroom setup).
• Explain Schema Theory – Discuss how our long-term memory often requires reconstruction (e.g., recalling a family gathering).
• Discuss Connectionism – Explaining how memory is stored in neurons (e.g., remembering a dog's name).
• Identify Nodes – Short explanation on their role in connecting and influence memory.
• Introduce Consolidation – Briefly describe the process of strengthening and forming neural networks.

• What is a schema and how does it organize and interpret information?
• How does Schema Theory view our long-term memory?
• What does the Connectionist view argue about memory storage?

• Students – Parameterises understanding of memory frameworks
• Educators – Offers a clear explanation of schema and memory processing
• Neuroscience Researchers – Provides perspectives on theories of memory storage
• Psychology Enthusiasts – Expands knowledge on memory frameworks