The Atkinson-Shiffrin Model is a psychological theory proposed in 1968 by Richard Atkinson and Richard Shiffrin. It explains the process of memory formation and retrieval in humans. According to this model, human memory consists of three main components or subsystems: sensory memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory.

Sensory memory refers to the initial stage of memory processing where information from the environment is sensed and briefly stored. It is divided into different sensory registers, each corresponding to a specific sensory modality like visual (iconic memory) or auditory (echoic memory). Sensory memory has a large capacity, but the information stored is typically short-lived, lasting only a few seconds.

Short-term memory, also known as working memory, is the component responsible for temporarily holding and manipulating information. It has limited capacity and duration, allowing for the active processing of a small amount of information. Short-term memory is where conscious thought and problem-solving occur. If the information is not rehearsed or actively processed, it is likely to be lost from this memory store.

Long-term memory is the component responsible for the storage of information over extended periods. It has a potentially infinite capacity and covers factual knowledge, personal experiences, and learned skills. Encoding, consolidation, and retrieval are key processes involved in long-term memory. Information from short-term memory can be transferred to long-term memory through rehearsal and repeated exposure.

The Atkinson-Shiffrin Model provides a framework for understanding how information is processed and stored in memory. It highlights the sequential nature of memory stages and the importance of transferring information from one stage to another for effective memory functioning.