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A functional relation between learning and organization in free recall.
1Volen National Center for Complex Systems, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA 02454-9110, USA. kahana@brandeis.edu
Psychonomic Bulletin & Review
|November 18, 2000
Summary
Older adults showed less organization during learning, but when their learning level matched younger adults, their memory organization was similar. This suggests the relationship between learning and memory organization is consistent across age groups.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Neuroscience of Aging
Background:
- Multitrial free recall learning typically enhances output organization, even with randomized presentation.
- Age-related differences in learning and memory are well-documented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the relationship between learning and memory organization in young and older adults.
- To determine if learning ability differences impact the organization-learning function.
Main Methods:
- Thirty young and 30 older adults learned categorized materials to 100% recall.
- Output organization was assessed across learning trials.
- Performance was analyzed by equating for degree of learning.
Main Results:
- Older adults exhibited lower levels of organization on initial learning trials.
- When learning levels were matched, older adults demonstrated organization comparable to younger adults.
- The organization-learning relationship appeared consistent across age groups.
Conclusions:
- Memory organization and learning are closely linked, irrespective of age-related differences in learning speed.
- The fundamental relationship between memory organization and learning remains invariant with age.