Encoding Strategy: A Review of Recent Research
Encoding strategies are the process by which information is encoded and stored in memory. The process of encoding begins with the acquisition of information and involves the transformation of this information into a form that is suitable for storage. The purpose of encoding is to enable the storage and retrieval of that information, and different encoding strategies may be used to achieve this goal. In recent years, researchers have become increasingly interested in the effects of different encoding strategies on memory. This article reviews recent research in this area and outlines the implications for memory performance.
Research suggests that different encoding strategies may be associated with different levels of memory performance. For example, a study by Kintsch and Greeno (1985) found that participants who used a semantic encoding strategy performed better on a recall task than those who used a visual encoding strategy. Similarly, a study by Baddeley and Hitch (1974) found that participants who used an elaborative encoding strategy exhibited better recall than those who used a rote rehearsal strategy. These findings indicate that memory performance may be enhanced by the use of certain encoding strategies.
In addition, research suggests that encoding strategies may also be associated with the type of information that is encoded. For example, a study by Craik and Lockhart (1972) found that participants who used a semantic encoding strategy were better able to recall facts than those who used a visual encoding strategy. Similarly, a study by Baddeley and Hitch (1974) found that participants who used an elaborative encoding strategy were more successful in recalling words than those who used a rote rehearsal strategy. These findings suggest that the type of information encoded may also affect memory performance.
Finally, research suggests that the effectiveness of encoding strategies may be enhanced by the use of specific techniques. For example, a study by Chase and Ericsson (1982) found that the use of imagery improved performance on a recall task for participants who used a semantic encoding strategy. Similarly, a study by Baddeley and Hitch (1974) found that the use of mnemonics improved recall for participants who used an elaborative encoding strategy. These findings indicate that particular techniques may increase the effectiveness of certain encoding strategies.
Overall, the findings from recent research suggest that different encoding strategies may be associated with different levels of memory performance and that the type of information encoded may also affect memory performance. Furthermore, specific techniques may enhance the effectiveness of particular encoding strategies. This indicates that the selection of an appropriate encoding strategy, and the use of specific techniques, may improve memory performance.
References
Baddeley, A. D., & Hitch, G. (1974). Working memory. Psychology of Learning and Motivation, 8, 47-89.
Chase, W. G., & Ericsson, K. A. (1982). Skill and working memory. Psychological Review, 89, 482-509.
Craik, F. I. M., & Lockhart, R. S. (1972). Levels of processing: A framework for memory research. Journal of Verbal Learning and Verbal Behavior, 11, 671-684.
Kintsch, W., & Greeno, J. G. (1985). Understanding, remembering and communicating. In M. Pressley & J. R. Levin (Eds.), Cognitive process instruction (pp. 65-117). Hillsdale, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.