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When working memory updating requires updating: analysis of serial position in a running memory task
Marta Botto1, Demis Basso2, Marcella Ferrari1
1Department of Brain and Behavioral Science, University of Pavia, Piazza Botta 6, 27100 Pavia, Italy.
This study shows that working memory (WM) updating is an active process. Performance depends on available memory and executive resources, with high task demands impacting updating efficiency.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Human Memory
Background:
- Working memory (WM) is crucial for cognitive tasks.
- Understanding WM updating mechanisms is key to cognitive function.
- The role of executive resources in WM updating requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate working memory (WM) updating.
- To analyze the effects of task demand and memory resources on the serial position curve (SPC).
- To determine if WM updating is an active or passive process.
Main Methods:
- A running memory task with slow-paced presentation and probed recognition.
- Comparison of serial position curves under high/low WM load.
- Inclusion of a secondary prospective memory (PM) task to assess resource allocation.
Main Results:
- A primacy and recency effect (indicating active strategy) was observed with high WM load or high PM load.
- A recency-only effect was observed when both WM and PM loads were high.
- Resource availability significantly influences WM updating strategies.
Conclusions:
- Individuals can effectively update working memory (WM).
- WM updating performance is contingent upon the availability of both memory and executive resources.
- Task demands modulate the strategy used for WM updating.
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