Declarative memory
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Declarative memory is the aspect of human
memory that stores
facts
and
experiences. It is so called because it refers to memories
that can be consciously discussed, or declared. It
applies to standard
textbook
learning and
knowledge, as well memories that can be 'travelled back to'
in one's 'mind's
eye'. It is contrasted with
procedural memory, which applies to skills. Declarative
memory is subject to
forgetting, but frequently-accessed memories can last
indefinitely. Declarative memories are best established by using
active recall combined with
mnemonic techniques and
spaced repetition.
Types of declarative memory
There are two types of declarative memory:
- Episodic memory
- Event memory; memory of a specific moment in time and place
- Semantic memory
- Fact knowledge independent of time- and place- context
Some people believe that episodic memory and semantic memory are
really just one type of memory. However, most believe they are
quite different, and indeed distinct.
Neuropsychology
Physically speaking, declarative memory requires the medial temporal lobe, especially the hippocampus and related areas of the cerebral cortex. The famous amnesiac H.M. had great medial temporal structure damage and primarily declarative impairment.
See also
- Propositional knowledge
- Procedural memory
Categories: Articles to be merged since May 2006 | Memory | Psychology stubs

