Different memory processes

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Short Term Memory: holds a limited amount of information for a limited amount of time. It is our active memory mostly consist of the information we are currently focusing on and thinking about. The brain categorises this information into ‘discard or forget’, ‘use it right away’ or ‘store this information’ so many short term memories are quickly forgotten.

Working Memory: an active, limited capacity memory system that holds information for a short time while a task is being performed. Short-term memory is often used interchangeably with working memory.

Automatic Memory: enables familiar or known facts to be remembered quickly such as naming colours and letters, reading sight words.

Long Term Memory: ‘cements’ information so it can be used over hours, days or a lifetime. This information is largely outside of our awareness but can be called into working memory to be used when needed.

What happens if my child struggles with memory?

Reference:
Kincaid, D.M. & Trautman, N. Remembering: Teaching Students How to Retain and Mentally Manipulate Information. Chapter in Meltzer, L. (2010) Promoting Executive Function in the Classroom. The Guildford Press, New York.

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