Bartlett's theory of reconstructive memory

Overview

Reproductive and reconstructive memory, schemas, effort after meaning, rationalisation, omission and confabulation, and the theory's strengths and limits.

What you need to know

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Questions from this subtopic

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1. 1

   What does Bartlett's theory of reconstructive memory claim?

   Model answer

   Bartlett claimed memory is an active process rather than an exact recording. People rebuild memories from stored fragments using their schemas.

2. 2

   What is the difference between reproductive and reconstructive memory?

   Model answer

   Reproductive memory would be an exact copy of what happened. Reconstructive memory is rebuilt each time and can be distorted.

3. 3

   What is a schema in Bartlett's theory of memory?

   Model answer

   A schema is an organised package of knowledge about something, built up from past experience.

4. 4

   How are schemas formed?

   Model answer

   Schemas are formed through repeated experience of similar events, objects or people. Culture and upbringing also shape the schemas a person develops.

5. 5

   Give an example of a schema for a familiar event.

   Model answer

   A restaurant schema includes being seated, ordering from a menu, eating and paying the bill.

6. 6

   How do schemas influence what we remember?

   Model answer

   Schemas fill gaps in memory with what we expect to have happened. Details that do not fit our schemas are often forgotten or changed.

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