Term: Sensory memory

A module of memory which holds a snapshot of the messages coming from the senses (hearing, sight, taste, smell, touch etc.) This snapshot is detailed, but only lasts a few seconds. For the information to be remembered, the interesting or important aspects must be transferred to working memory.

Working memory sends signals to the sensory memory that affect what is held in the sensory memory. For example, an expert chef will taste things most people wouldn’t. In the same way, a netball fan will see details that won’t be seen by someone ignorant of the game.

For more information

Baddeley, A., Eysenck, M. W., & Anderson, M. C. (2020). Memory (3rd edition). Routledge.