Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 11, 2026
06:35
Examining Recall Memory in Infancy and Early Childhood Using the Elicited Imitation Paradigm
Published on: April 28, 2016
Two paradigms of measuring serial-order memory: two different patterns of serial-position functions
1Department of Psychology and Anthropology, The University of Texas-Pan American, 1201 W. University Drive, Edinburg, TX 78539-2999, USA. jjou@utpa.edu
Psychological Research
|July 8, 2010
Summary
Two methods for studying serial-order memory yield different results. Serial recall shows subgrouping, while comparative judgment reveals a unidimensional structure, impacting memory representation understanding.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Memory Research
Background:
- Serial-order memory research employs two main paradigms: serial recall (accuracy) and comparative judgment (reaction time).
- These paradigms yield differing serial-position functions: multiple bowings for recall and a single bowing for judgment.
- This discrepancy leads to opposing views on memory structure: hierarchical versus unidimensional.
Purpose of the Study:
- To confirm the hypothesized relationship between measurement procedures and serial-position function patterns.
- To investigate the differing structural implications for serial-order memory based on measurement method.
Main Methods:
- Utilized serial recall tasks to measure accuracy.
- Employed comparative judgment tasks measuring reaction time.
- Analyzed serial-position functions derived from both methods.
Main Results:
- Confirmed that serial recall produces a multiple-bowing serial-position function, indicative of spontaneous subgrouping.
- Confirmed that comparative judgment produces a single-bowing serial-position function.
- The study validated the differing patterns associated with each measurement technique.
Conclusions:
- Serial recall likely involves retrieving absolute position information, facilitated by subgrouping.
- Comparative judgment likely involves retrieving relative position information, where subgrouping may be detrimental.
- The findings reconcile opposing views by linking measurement method to observed memory structure.
Related Concept Videos
01:03Serial Position Effect
The serial position effect is a cognitive phenomenon where individuals are more likely to recall the first and last items in a list compared to those in the middle. This effect is divided into the primacy effect and the recency effect. The primacy effect is observed when the initial items in a list are remembered better. This occurs because these items are rehearsed more frequently or receive more elaborative processing, allowing them to be encoded into long-term memory more effectively. For...
03:26Framing Effects
Information is everywhere and its presentation—such as how and when items are presented—can impact our perceptions and decisions surrounding the info. This broad concept umbrellas framing effects—influences that occur due to the way information is framed in its appearance, whether it’s purely the order or the specific wording of a message. Let’s take a look at numerous ways in which two versions of something can objectively say the same thing, yet we respond in different ways based on the...
01:23Mnemonic Devices
Mnemonic devices are cognitive tools that facilitate memory retention by linking new information to familiar patterns or organizational strategies. These techniques are beneficial for remembering complex or lengthy sets of information by simplifying and structuring them in easily retrievable ways.
Acronyms
Acronyms are created by using the initial letters of a series of words to form a new word or phrase. This approach condenses complex information into a single, memorable entity. For example,...
Acronyms
Acronyms are created by using the initial letters of a series of words to form a new word or phrase. This approach condenses complex information into a single, memorable entity. For example,...
01:19Understanding Memory
Memory is the retention of information or experiences over time, facilitated through three main processes: encoding, storage, and retrieval. Encoding is the process of inputting information into the memory system. For instance, when listening to a lecture, watching a play, reading a book, or having a conversation, the brain is actively encoding information. This initial stage involves transforming sensory input into a form that can be processed and stored by the brain. Various factors, such as...
01:26Per-Unit Sequence Models
An ideal Y-Y transformer, grounded through neutral impedances, displays per-unit sequence networks akin to those of a single-phase ideal transformer when subjected to balanced positive- or negative-sequence currents. These currents do not produce neutral currents, and their associated voltage drops.
Zero-sequence currents, which are identical in magnitude and phase, generate a neutral current, resulting in voltage drops across the neutral impedance and the low-voltage winding. If the...
Zero-sequence currents, which are identical in magnitude and phase, generate a neutral current, resulting in voltage drops across the neutral impedance and the low-voltage winding. If the...
01:23System of Memory
Memory is categorized into three major systems: sensory memory, short-term memory (STM), and long-term memory (LTM). These systems differ in their capacity and the duration for which they can hold information. Sensory memory captures raw sensory input from the environment, holding it for just a few seconds or less. For example, on hearing a brief, loud sound, like a car horn honking, the sound seems to linger in the mind for a moment even after it stops. This is an instance of sensory memory...