Choose one step in the memory process: Encoding - Assignment Example

Encoding Technique College: Introduction Encoding is the process of converting information received by the sensory information store and transferred to the short-term memory into a language that the human mind understands using semantics, visual or verbal means (NASA, 2011). Thus, encoding plays a fundamental role in the human memory process by forming the platform upon which the whole process begins. Because this process takes place in the short-term memory, it means that the encoded information can be lost easily.

Therefore, it is imperative that, combinations of techniques are used to enhance the storage of this information to avoid losing it.The process of encoding can be improved or enhanced through the elaboration rehearsal (ER) technique that demands repetitive thinking or verbalizing of information before it is encoded and transferred to the long-term memory for storage (Rogers, 2010). Thus, through thinking or verbalizing, information can be easily encoded into the long-term memory without the risk of being lost.

Elaboration rehearsal is the most effective technique of encoding information. Before information is encoded into the long-term memory, the brain tries to find the meaning of the information before connecting it to other similar information already stored in memory hence allowing good classification, which enhances and minimizes the risk of loss.Elaboration rehearsal can help me maintain important education information in my fingertips especially, one that pertaining to formulae. By verbalizing and thinking about the formulae like in Mathematics, rather than trying to memorize and rehearse those formulas in a random manner, ER can enhance my recalling ability, which is beneficial in the long-term.

Therefore, it is imperative that students embrace elaboration rehearsal in their studies since this is the most reliable and effective technique of storing information rather than using other less reliable techniques like maintenance rehearsal.ReferencesNASA. (2011). Human Memory. Web. Retrieved from http://human-factors.arc.nasa.gov/cognition/tutorials/ModelOf/Knowmore1.html [Accessed: 17 March 2014].Rogers, O. (2010). Retroactive Vs. Proactive Interference. Retrieved from http://www.ehow.com/facts_7269925_retroactive-vs_-proactive-interference.

html [Accessed: 17 March 2014].