Working Memory

Definition

Working memory is a cognitive system responsible for temporarily holding and processing information needed for complex tasks such as learning, reasoning, and comprehension. It plays a crucial role in motor learning, as it allows individuals to manipulate and utilize information to perform motor skills effectively, linking immediate recall with task performance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Working memory has a limited capacity, often described as the ability to hold around 7 plus or minus 2 items simultaneously.
2. The duration that information remains in working memory without rehearsal is approximately 20 to 30 seconds.
3. Working memory is essential for tasks like problem-solving and decision-making in both academic and motor skill contexts.
4. High cognitive load can impair working memory performance, making it harder to learn new motor skills or execute complex movements.
5. Effective strategies such as chunking information or using mnemonic devices can enhance working memory retention and application in learning new motor tasks.

Review Questions

• How does working memory contribute to the acquisition of motor skills?
  • Working memory is vital in acquiring motor skills because it allows individuals to hold and manipulate relevant information while practicing those skills. For example, when learning a new movement pattern, working memory helps to remember instructions, adjust actions based on feedback, and coordinate movements in real-time. This ability to process and apply information is essential for refining motor skills and achieving proficiency.
• Discuss the relationship between cognitive load and working memory's effectiveness in learning new motor skills.
  • Cognitive load significantly impacts the effectiveness of working memory when learning new motor skills. When the cognitive load is too high, it can overwhelm the limited capacity of working memory, leading to decreased performance and increased errors in skill execution. Therefore, managing cognitive load through structured practice sessions can optimize the use of working memory and enhance learning outcomes for motor skills.
• Evaluate the impact of individual differences in working memory capacity on motor learning outcomes.
  • Individual differences in working memory capacity can greatly influence motor learning outcomes. Those with higher working memory capacity often find it easier to process complex information and adapt their techniques during practice, leading to quicker skill acquisition and improved performance. Conversely, individuals with lower working memory capacity may struggle to keep track of multiple aspects of a task simultaneously, which can hinder their ability to learn new skills efficiently. This highlights the importance of tailoring instructional strategies to accommodate varying capacities in working memory.

Related terms

Short-Term Memory: A part of the memory system that holds a limited amount of information for a brief period, usually around 15 to 30 seconds.

Cognitive Load:

The total amount of mental effort being used in the working memory, which can affect performance and learning.

Attention:

The cognitive process of selectively concentrating on specific information while ignoring other perceivable information, crucial for effective working memory use.