Memory - Basic Components

Many models of human memory have been developed by cognitive psychologists. Most of these models agree on three basic components, although they may differ on how these components individually function and interact. These components are:

• Sensory Memory - Each sensory system has a corresponding sensory memory which is also termed a sensory register or sensory store. Each sensory memory briefly stores and transforms the stimuli it receives into a form that can be processed by short-term memory.
• Short-Term Memory - Short-term memory (STM) receives, holds, and processes information from the sensory registers. Processing in STM is necessary before information can be transferred and retained in long-term memory. STM also retrieves information from long-term memory when needed.
• Long-Term Memory - Long-term memory (LTM) receives information from short-term memory and stores it indefinitely. LTM capacity is considered unlimited for practical purposes. LTM holds all of the learning and memories of our life experience. It is essentially our life "database." The retrieval and processing of long-term memories by STM enables us to function in the world.

Three Basic Components of Memory