Final answer:
Elaborative encoding is the act of actively relating new information to knowledge already in memory, a technique that is more effective than mnemonic, acoustic, or visual encoding for transferring information to long-term memory. It involves linking and repeating new information with what is already known, based on the levels of processing hypothesis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Encoding in Memory:
The concept described in the question pertains to elaborative encoding, which is the process of actively relating new information in a meaningful way to knowledge already in memory. Unlike mnemonic, acoustic, or visual encoding, elaborative encoding involves linking new information to existing knowledge, thereby facilitating the transfer of information from short-term to long-term memory. Elaborative rehearsal is a strategy of elaborative encoding that not only connects the new information with what is already known but also involves repetition to strengthen the memory trace.
For instance, when trying to remember a new phone number with area code 520, you might recall that this is the code for Arizona, and the person you met is from there. This association enhances memory retention. Such strategies are based on the levels of processing hypothesis by Craik and Lockhart, which posits that deeper cognitive processing of material leads to better memory. Therefore, when actively connecting new verbal information to our existing knowledge, we should utilize elaborative encoding to improve recall abilities.