Final answer:
Semantic encoding is shown to be the most effective form of encoding for long-term memory recall, followed by visual encoding, and then acoustic encoding, as evidenced by research conducted by Craik and Tulving.
Step-by-step explanation:
Long-term memories are recalled better when they are encoded using different types of encoding methods. Psychological research, particularly a series of experiments conducted by psychologists Craik and Tulving, has shown that semantic encoding, which involves processing the meaning of words, leads to better memory recall than visual or acoustic encoding.
In the experiments, participants were presented with questions that encouraged them to process words in different ways - visually, acoustically, or semantically. The findings highlighted that semantic encoding was the most effective in enhancing recall during unexpected tests. Visual encoding refers to the encoding of images and is effective for concrete, high-imagery words. In contrast, acoustic encoding pertains to sounds and is less effective compared to semantic encoding for long-term recall.
Therefore, the methods of recall should be ordered based on effectiveness from most to least as:
- Semantic Encoding
- Visual Encoding
- Acoustic Encoding