The working memory model: central executive, phonological loop, visuo-spatial sketchpad and episodic buffer
The working memory model, proposed by Baddeley and Hitch, describes short-term memory as four separate components. Each component handles a different type of information at the same time.
Real World
When a driver navigates an unfamiliar city using sat-nav, the central executive coordinates attention between the phonological loop (processing spoken directions) and the visuo-spatial sketchpad (forming a mental map of the route) — illustrating how the components work simultaneously on different information types.
Exam Focus
For 'describe' questions, name all four components and state each one's specific function — examiners penalise vague answers.
Evaluation Scaffold
A four-step framework for high-quality evaluation. Use this for 'assess', 'evaluate', and 'to what extent' questions.
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