Computer as metaphor
Encoding is the process of gathering and representing information in the sensory register. This is not unlike the process of "encoding" or inputing information into the computer. The computers sensory organs are the keyboard (feel), camera or scanner (eyes), modem (ears). These input devices take information and deliver it to buffers, prior to processing by the computer. Similarly, human senses deliver information to sensory registers. The capacity of the sensory registers is quite large, but the duration is very brief, with significant loss of information occurring in under 3 seconds.
Information is moved from the sensory registers (computer buffers) into short term or working memory (ram). In general, short-term or working memory is very limited, and is often referred to as having a capacity of 7+ 2 (7 plus or minus 2). Most people can handle about 7 pieces of information easily, and almost everyone can handle between 5 and 9. If we ask people to remember more pieces of information than this, they generaly have a great deal of difficulty. Telephone numbers are an ideal size at 7 digits, and are further enhanced because they can be chunked (broken down into simple units i.e., 590, 7792).
Information is moved from short-term or working memory to long term memory (From RAM to a hard drive). Long term memory allows for storage of vast amounts of information which is ready for retreivel when necessary.
Finally, there is an executive control routine which guides and monitors the entire process. The executive control is similar to a computer bios. Scientists theorize that the executive routine is hardwired and controls the movement of information in the brain, ensuirng that information arrives at its destination without accident or mishap.
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