Middle-Term Memory

Middle-term memory, also known as working memory, refers to the process of temporarily retaining and manipulating information in the mind. It includes the capacity to hold a limited amount of data for a short duration and actively work with it. Middle-term memory plays a crucial role in various cognitive processes, such as problem-solving, decision-making, learning, and language comprehension.

Characteristics of Middle-Term Memory

• Capacity: Middle-term memory has a limited storage capacity compared to long-term memory. It can hold a small amount of information simultaneously.
• Duration: The duration of middle-term memory typically lasts for a few seconds to several minutes, depending on various factors such as the complexity and significance of the information.
• Manipulation: Unlike short-term memory, middle-term memory involves actively manipulating and processing the stored information. It enables mental operations like reasoning, decision-making, and problem-solving.
• Interactions: Middle-term memory interacts with other cognitive processes, such as attention, perception, and long-term memory. It helps in integrating new information with existing knowledge and retrieving relevant details from long-term memory.

Working of Middle-Term Memory

Middle-term memory operates through various cognitive processes that contribute to the encoding, storage, and retrieval of information. These processes involve attention, perception, rehearsal, and executive functions like decision-making and problem-solving. The information stored in middle-term memory can be used for immediate tasks or transferred to long-term memory for later use.

Importance of Middle-Term Memory

Middle-term memory is crucial for everyday functioning and cognitive tasks. It allows individuals to hold and manipulate information temporarily, aiding in decision-making, problem-solving, and learning new concepts. It facilitates the integration of new knowledge with existing schemas and enables the brain to actively process and work with information in real-time situations.