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Retroactive interference as a function of degree of interpolated study without overt retrieval practice.
1Department of Psychology, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA. ddelprato@emich.edu
Psychonomic Bulletin & Review
|August 9, 2005
Summary
Retroactive interference (RI) occurs even without retrieval-induced inhibition. This study shows that memory interference increases with the degree of interpolated learning, suggesting alternative mechanisms for RI.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Memory Research
Background:
- Retroactive interference (RI) is a phenomenon where newly learned information disrupts recall of previously learned information.
- Existing models often attribute RI to retrieval-induced inhibition or output interference.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the occurrence of retroactive interference (RI) under conditions minimizing retrieval-induced inhibition and output interference.
- To determine if RI can occur independently of retrieval-induced inhibition.
Main Methods:
- Two experiments were conducted using different learning and testing paradigms.
- Experiment 1 involved learning person-location pairs with interpolated lists, using a study-only method to avoid retrieval practice.
- Experiment 2 used incidental learning with unrelated word lists and partial cues during recall.
Main Results:
- Retroactive interference (RI) was observed in both experiments.
- The magnitude of RI increased proportionally with the degree of interpolated learning (number of interpolated list presentations).
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest that retroactive interference (RI) does not necessitate retrieval-induced inhibition.
- Memory interference can occur through mechanisms other than active retrieval suppression.