Working Memory

Module Overview

In this module, the topic of working memory is introduced. This module begins by using the analogy of conductor and orchestra to explain the relationship of working memory to the rest of the brain. The role of executive control is introduced along with the various memory buffers that make up working memory. The episodic buffer is introduced as a component of working memory that supports episodic memory and that supplements the phonological loop and visuo-spatial sketchpad as short-term memory stores.

Introduction

One of the challenges for students coming in to the topic is to make a clear distinction between short-term memory and working memory. While short-term memory has been conceptualized as is an intermediate step in the transition from sensory buffers to long-term memory, working memory is a much more inclusive, activated, and task oriented construct. Working memory is closely related to the constructs of executive control and attention. In our view exective control is contained within the working memory construct. Similarly, working memory is itself contained within the general construct of attention. The operations of working memory is closely associated with the dorso-lateral prefrontal cortex which carries out its function by selective activating other areas within the brain.

The role of working memory is discussed in terms of a number of different functions including perceptual processes, activation of information within long-term memory, and response selection and control of eye movements. The voluntary control of eye movements represents an example where the construct of executive control seems to blend with working memory rather than being strictly nested with in it. Not only does the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex trigger much fo the activation associated with working memory, but it also connects direct to the frontal eye fields and appears to trigger voluntary eye movements.

While working memory is closely associated with the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex we introduce a model where components of working memory are spread around the brain, with the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex as the main coordinator. This module emphasizes the multifunctional nature of working memory. The role of this multifunctional system in activating memories and performing executive control is the pedagogical focus of this module. The module describes the properties of working memory and the brain locations that are associated with its functioning.

This module consists of a video that provides an introduction to working memory. The module also contains a supplementary video that further discusses the components of working memory.

Prerequisites

Before starting this module, it will be helpful to be familiar with:

Basic concepts of memory storage and activation,
The location of the dorso-lateral prefrontal cortex,
The concept of short-term memory
The basic properties of human attention.

Learning Outcomes

With careful study, by the end of this module, one should be able to:

Draw the model of working memory and label the components.
Explain the activation view of working memory.
Contrast the role of the episodic buffer with the other components of working memory.

Related Project Resources

Type	Title	Author	Description
Image	Left Hemisphere (JPG, 852.48 KB)	Dr. Peter Coppin	CC BY
File	Working Memory (Storyline File) (ZIP, 520 KB)	Dr. Mark Chignell	This Storyline File can be downloaded and modified to your specific learning objectives (within the bounds of the creative commons licensing selected for this file. This is encouraged, but any technical issues are not supported by the University of Toronto.
File	Working Memory (SCORM Package) (ZIP, 1.15 MB)	Dr. Mark Chignell	This SCORM package can be uploaded into your institution's Learning Management System.
File	Working Memory - Instructor Presentation (PDF, 545.2 KB)	Andrea Jovanovic	This file could be used by an instructor in the classroom to present this material.
File	Working Memory (Notes Pages) (PDF, 144.88 KB)	Andrea Jovanovic	This file could be shared with students for taking notes while participating in the module.