Memory is the most important cognitive function that performs a connecting role between the past, present and future of the subject. In fact, it is a process of capturing, preserving and subsequent reproduction of past events. There are several basic classifications of memory types based on various bases.
Varieties of memory depending on the storage time of information
Memory, the types of which are divided by the time information is stored, is represented by the following classification: short-term, instant, long-term, operational and genetic.
The easiest is instant memory. It allows you to save information only during its perception.
The next type of long-term storage of information is short-term memory. It allows you to save data for a fairly short period of time, approximately 30-40 seconds from the moment they are received. To evaluate this type of memory can be, for example, the maximum number of images, objects or symbols that a person is able to reproduce within a minute from the moment of memorization. The amount of short-term memory averages up to 10 data units. This kind of memorization is also characteristic of such a thing as “substitution”. This property is manifested during the overflow of the permissible amount of data and lies in the fact that the new information replaces the old, completely removing it from the bowels of the memory.
The operational variety is aimed at storing data for a predetermined time. At the end of the specified period, data from RAM begins to be forgotten. Most often, this period lasts from several minutes to several days.
The following are important types of memory, such as long-term and genetic. Long-term allows you to save information for a long time. The data stored in it can be reproduced repeatedly, but it is necessary to exert a willpower and start the process of thinking. This type of memory allows a person to recall previously received information and use it. Long-term memory is considered the main species in human life, as it is used most often. Genetic memory includes those data that are transmitted and reproduced by inheritance and stored in the human genotype.
Types of memory according to the sensory organs involved
According to this criterion, the following types of memory are distinguished : auditory, visual, motor, olfactory, tactile, taste and emotional.
The most developed is visual memory. It allows you to save and reproduce data in the form of a specific visual image.
The auditory memory stores data that comes through the organs of hearing. This includes music, speech, etc.
Motor or so-called motor memory allows you to remember various movements. This type prevails among athletes and people who exercise.
The tactile type of memory is based on memorizing the sensations that arise when feeling certain objects. Such memory most often functions together with the visual variety, which allows you to recreate the most accurate image of the object.
The person has olfactory memory since birth and is associated with various odors. It develops throughout life.
Taste memory is responsible for the taste of products. This type is maximally developed among tasters, cooks, confectioners and other people who are somehow connected with cooking.
Emotional types of memory allow you to store impressions arising as a result of certain emotional experiences. The brighter the emotion, the more information remains with the person and vice versa.
All types of memory presented here are an integral attribute of human life and contribute to the continuous development of the personality of the subject.