Final answer:
Spreading activation and depth of processing are cognitive psychology concepts that describe how memory is interconnected and the importance of processing information deeply for better retention. Spreading activation is the process by which activating one memory can facilitate the retrieval of related ones, while depth of processing involves encoding strategies that significantly enhance memory retention.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Spreading Activation and Depth of Processing
The topic of spreading activation relates to how the activation of one element in a semantic network can lead to the activation of related concepts, albeit to a lesser extent. The concept, introduced by Collins & Loftus in 1975, underscores the interconnectivity of memory and how access to one memory can facilitate the retrieval of others. This plays a key role in the way we remember and recall information, as linked concepts are more readily available due to their partially activated state.
Moreover, the concept of depth of processing as proposed by Craik and Lockhart falls under cognitive psychology and it emphasizes that the deeper the level at which information is processed, the more likely it is to be remembered. This is achieved through strategies like elaborative rehearsal, where new information is actively connected to pre-existing knowledge, and the self-reference effect, where personal relevance enhances memory retention.
The Atkinson-Shiffrin model adds another angle by proposing that information must pass through three stages—sensory memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory—for successful retention. Active and effortful processing are also essential for encoding information into long-term memory, and different memory techniques can enhance this process. Implicit priming is another memory process whereby exposure to certain stimuli influences responses to subsequent related stimuli.