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0
E
Erica
16/07/2025
Psychology
Types of long-term memory
826
•
16 Jul 2025
•
Episodic, Semantic, and Procedural Memory: Long-Term Memory Examples and Differences
Debate: Two or Three Types of Long-Term Memory?
While Tulving's model proposes three distinct types of long-term memory, some researchers argue for a simpler classification.
Declarative vs. Non-Declarative Memory
Cohen and Squire (1980) suggest a two-store model of long-term memory:
- Declarative Memory: Combines episodic and semantic memories Characterized by conscious recall
- Non-Declarative Memory: Equivalent to procedural memory Does not require conscious recall
Definition: Declarative memory refers to memories that can be consciously recalled and verbalized.
This alternative model highlights the ongoing debate in the field regarding the most accurate way to categorize long-term memory systems.
Highlight: The debate between two and three types of long-term memory underscores the complexity of memory processes and the need for continued research in this area.
Understanding these different perspectives on long-term memory types is crucial for students studying A Level Psychology, as it demonstrates the evolving nature of psychological theories and the importance of critical evaluation in the field.
Types of Long-Term Memory
Tulving (1985) proposed three distinct stores within long-term memory, each responsible for different types of information. This classification has significant implications for understanding memory processes in A Level Psychology.
Episodic Memory
Episodic memory refers to the ability to recall specific events or experiences from one's past. It requires conscious effort to retrieve these memories.
Example: Remembering your first day at school or your last birthday celebration.
Semantic Memory
Semantic memory encompasses our general knowledge about the world, including facts, concepts, and meanings. Like episodic memory, it requires conscious recall.
Vocabulary: Semantic memory is often described as our 'encyclopedic' knowledge.
Procedural Memory
Procedural memory involves the recall of skills and procedures, often referred to as 'muscle memory'. Unlike episodic and semantic memories, procedural memories can be recalled without conscious effort.
Example: Riding a bicycle or typing on a keyboard without looking at the keys.
Evaluation of Long-Term Memory Types
Clinical Evidence
Studies of patients with amnesia, such as HM and Clive Wearing, provide strong support for the distinction between these types of long-term memory.
Highlight: Amnesic patients often show impaired episodic memory while retaining intact semantic and procedural memories, suggesting separate memory systems.
Neuroimaging Evidence
Brain scanning studies, like that conducted by Tulving et al. (1994), have revealed distinct neural activations for different memory types.
Quote: "Episodic and semantic memories [are] recalled from prefrontal cortex - left (semantic), right (episodic)"
This neuroimaging evidence strengthens the case for separate long-term memory systems.
Real-Life Applications
Research into long-term memory in Psychology has practical implications for treating memory impairments.
Example: Belleville et al. (2006) showed that targeted training could improve episodic memory in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.
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Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
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Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Episodic, Semantic, and Procedural Memory: Long-Term Memory Examples and Differences
Long-term memory (LTM) is a complex system that stores information for extended periods. This summary explores the types of LTM, their characteristics, and supporting evidence.
- Three main types of long-term memory: episodic, semantic, and procedural
- Supported by clinical and... Show more
Debate: Two or Three Types of Long-Term Memory?
While Tulving's model proposes three distinct types of long-term memory, some researchers argue for a simpler classification.
Declarative vs. Non-Declarative Memory
Cohen and Squire (1980) suggest a two-store model of long-term memory:
- Declarative Memory: Combines episodic and semantic memories Characterized by conscious recall
- Non-Declarative Memory: Equivalent to procedural memory Does not require conscious recall
Definition: Declarative memory refers to memories that can be consciously recalled and verbalized.
This alternative model highlights the ongoing debate in the field regarding the most accurate way to categorize long-term memory systems.
Highlight: The debate between two and three types of long-term memory underscores the complexity of memory processes and the need for continued research in this area.
Understanding these different perspectives on long-term memory types is crucial for students studying A Level Psychology, as it demonstrates the evolving nature of psychological theories and the importance of critical evaluation in the field.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Types of Long-Term Memory
Tulving (1985) proposed three distinct stores within long-term memory, each responsible for different types of information. This classification has significant implications for understanding memory processes in A Level Psychology.
Episodic Memory
Episodic memory refers to the ability to recall specific events or experiences from one's past. It requires conscious effort to retrieve these memories.
Example: Remembering your first day at school or your last birthday celebration.
Semantic Memory
Semantic memory encompasses our general knowledge about the world, including facts, concepts, and meanings. Like episodic memory, it requires conscious recall.
Vocabulary: Semantic memory is often described as our 'encyclopedic' knowledge.
Procedural Memory
Procedural memory involves the recall of skills and procedures, often referred to as 'muscle memory'. Unlike episodic and semantic memories, procedural memories can be recalled without conscious effort.
Example: Riding a bicycle or typing on a keyboard without looking at the keys.
Evaluation of Long-Term Memory Types
Clinical Evidence
Studies of patients with amnesia, such as HM and Clive Wearing, provide strong support for the distinction between these types of long-term memory.
Highlight: Amnesic patients often show impaired episodic memory while retaining intact semantic and procedural memories, suggesting separate memory systems.
Neuroimaging Evidence
Brain scanning studies, like that conducted by Tulving et al. (1994), have revealed distinct neural activations for different memory types.
Quote: "Episodic and semantic memories [are] recalled from prefrontal cortex - left (semantic), right (episodic)"
This neuroimaging evidence strengthens the case for separate long-term memory systems.
Real-Life Applications
Research into long-term memory in Psychology has practical implications for treating memory impairments.
Example: Belleville et al. (2006) showed that targeted training could improve episodic memory in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user