Understanding how different types of memory change over time

What is it about?

The way our brains process information can be divided into at least two categories: implicit and explicit. Implicit memory is when we learn something without consciously trying to, like how to ride a bike. Explicit memory is when we intentionally try to remember something, like a phone number. This study is the first to show that these two types of memory decay, or weaken, at different rates when using a specific task called a Serial Reaction Time Task. We used a mathematical model to try to understand these differences in forgetting patterns and how they fit with two different theories about how our brains process information: one that assumes no difference between implicit and explicit memory, and one that assumes there are significant differences between them. Our results showed a boundary condition, or a limit, for the first theory.

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Photo by Anne Nygård on Unsplash

Photo by Anne Nygård on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Based on our findings, we propose a specific theory that can better explain the different patterns of forgetting we observed for implicit and explicit memory. Understanding these differences in how implicit and explicit memory decay over time can help us develop better strategies for improving memory performance and can inform instructional strategies in fields like education. Additionally, this research can contribute to our understanding of the architecture of the human cognitive system, including how different forms of knowledge are related to one another and how they change over time.