Contexts and control operations used in accessing list-specific, generalized, and semantic memories.
The human ability to focus memory retrieval operations on a particular list, episode or memory structure has not been fully appreciated or documented. In Experiment 1-3, we make it increasingly difficult for participants to switch between a less recent list (multiple study opportunities), and a more recent list (single study opportunity). Task performance was good, although there was a cost associated with switching. In Experiment 4, list-specific learning experiences were used to create a generalized memory as a step towards semantic memory. List-specific memories intruded during attempts to retrieve the generalized memory and the generalized memory enhanced list-specific performance. The generalized memory also intruded in a free-association task. We propose that a hierarchy of contexts and control operations underlie the human ability to access different memory structures and that there is no sharp discontinuity in the control operations needed to access list-specific, generalized, and semantic memories.
Humphreys
Michael S
MS
School of Psychology, Key Centre for Human Factors, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia. mh@humanfactors.uq.edu.au
Murray
Krista L
KL
Maguire
Angela M
AM
D000704:Analysis of Variance; D001245:Association Learning; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008568:Memory; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D010775:Photic Stimulation / Q000379:methods; D011930:Reaction Time; D021641:Recognition, Psychology; D012660:Semantics; D014705:Verbal Behavior; D055815:Young Adult