Final answer:
Bahrick's research on foreign language retention highlighted a main effect of the frequency of usage on the permastore memory, indicating that continual practice is key for retaining language skills over time.
Step-by-step explanation:
Bahrick's data on foreign language retention is a critical insight into long-term memory and cognition. In this context, premature refers to a long-lasting memory store for over-learned materials, such as a foreign language learned at an earlier age.
The main effect demonstrated by Bahrick's research was the influence of the frequency of usage of the foreign language after formal study had ended.
The data showed that the more frequently an individual used the language, the less likely they were to forget it over time. This effect underscores the importance of continual practice and reinforcement in maintaining foreign language skills.
To better understand Bahrick's findings, let us consider an example. An individual who learned Spanish in high school and continues to use it regularly by speaking with friends, reading Spanish literature, or engaging with Spanish media is more likely to retain fluency than someone who does not.
This practical application of the language helps to maintain its presence in the premature memory, thus reducing the decline in the ability to recall and use the language effectively over time.