Final answer:
The components of retention are encoding, storage, and retrieval. Encoding represents the input of information into the memory system, storage is the maintenance of this information, and retrieval is the act of accessing stored information.
Step-by-step explanation:
The components that make up retention in the context of memory are encoding, storage, and retrieval. Encoding is the initial learning of information; storage refers to maintaining information over time; retrieval is the ability to access information when you need it. Therefore, the correct answer to what components make up retention is option (a) Encoding, Storage, Retrieval.
Encoding involves the input of information into the memory system. This process can be either automatic or effortful, depending on the nature of the information being processed. Storage refers to the creation of a permanent record of the encoded information. Lastly, retrieval is the act of getting the information out of storage and back into conscious awareness, which can be accomplished through recall, recognition, and relearning.