Memory and Forgetting

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Memory and Forgetting.
After taking a short term memory test, the result was average. It is easier to remember pictures than letters. Viewing those pictures is more interesting than trying to memorize all those letters. Images easily get into the mind while memorizing all the letters in the same sequence as they appear requires more concentration, more time and at times repetition.
The forgetting curve seeks to explain how the retention of information in the brain decreases over time (Seligman and Martin, 33).The information is forgotten gradually over a period of time after acquiring it. The processes and the speed at which we forget depend on different factors. Some of these factors are the complexity of the material being learned, condition of the learner and how this information is presented to the learner. Most of the information learned is usually forgotten within the first one month.
Most learners forget information while studying for exams. It requires a student to identify their strength and weaknesses so that they may tailor their studies according to their needs. Studying for exams requires a student to master a large volume of data and this requires spaces repetition.
Learners also tend to forget some of the information they have learnt right after class is over. This is because learning requires full involvement of the learner, visualization by the learner, note taking and proper presentation by the teacher. Mostly this is not the case for most learners as they may be distracted or lack the requirements for recall and retention of information.

In order for information to be moved from short term to long-term memory, the students need to visualize on what they are learning. Research has proven that images are more often memorable than words and letters. When they get image presentation, then the process of retrieving this information becomes much easier. Note taking is also another effective technique of improving memory. This technique requires a learner to think as they take the notes therefore able to master the content.
Work Cited
Seligman, Martin EP. Authentic happiness: Using the new positive psychology to realize your potential for lasting fulfillment. Simon and Schuster, 2004.