Working Memory Model: Components and Evaluation
The Working Memory Model WMM, developed by Baddeley and Hitch in 1974, revolutionized our understanding of short-term memory. This model challenges the Multi-Store model by proposing multiple components of short-term memory instead of a single unitary store.
Components of the Working Memory Model
Central Executive
The central executive serves as the supervisory system for the overall control and running of the memory system. It has the following characteristics:
- Controls attentional mechanisms
- Has limited capacity
- Involved in problem-solving and decision-making
- Monitors and coordinates the operation of the two slave systems
Definition: The central executive is the component responsible for overseeing and managing the other components of working memory.
Phonological Loop
The phonological loop is one of the slave systems and is responsible for processing speech-based information. It consists of two subcomponents:
- Phonological store: Stores acoustic items for a short period
- Articulatory control system: Allows for subvocal rehearsal/repetition
Highlight: The phonological loop is crucial for language acquisition and has a limited capacity.
Visuospatial Sketchpad
The visuospatial sketchpad is responsible for storing and manipulating visual and spatial information. It has two subcomponents:
- Inner scribe: Deals with spatial relationships between objects
- Visual cache: Stores visual information like form, shape, and color
Example: The visuospatial sketchpad allows us to visualize shapes in our "mind's eye" and remember the appearance of objects.
Episodic Buffer
Added by Baddeley in 2000, the episodic buffer is a temporary store that integrates information from other components. It acts as a "backup" store, communicating with both long-term memory and the components of WMM.
Vocabulary: The episodic buffer serves as an interface between the other components of working memory and long-term memory.
