Describe and Evaluate the Working Memory Model (12 marks)
The working memory model is the product of modification put forwards by Baddeley & Hitch in 1974. The working memory model is the adaptation of the multi-store model put forwards by Atkinson & Shiffrin in 1968. The working memory model was developed as a result of the weaknesses of the multi-store model.
The working memory model (WMM) deals primarily with STM. This is split into four different components: the central executive, the phonological loop, the visuospatial sketchpad and the episodic buffer. The central executive is the most important component of the model, although little is known about how it functions. It is responsible for monitoring and coordinating the operation of the slave systems (i.e. visuospatial sketch pad and phonological loop) and relates them to long term memory (LTM). The phonological loop is the part of working memory that deals with spoken and written material. The visuospatial sketchpad (inner eye): Stores and processes information in a visual or spatial form. The episodic buffer acts as a 'backup' store which communicates with both long term memory and the components of working memory.
The strengths of the working memory model is that it has replaced the idea of a unitary (one part) STM as suggested by the multi-store model. It also explains a lot more than the multi-store model (not as basic). It makes sense of, and applies to, a range of real life tasks - verbal reasoning, comprehension, reading, and problem solving and visual & spatial processing. The model is supported by considerable amounts of experimental evidence. The working memory model does not over emphasize the importance of rehearsal for STM retention, in contrast to the multi-store model.
The KF Case Study supports the