Memory is the process of storing and retrieving information in the brain. It is this process of memory that is central to learning and thinking.
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Human beings are continually learning throughout their lifetime. Only some of this massive volume of information is selected and stored and thus becomes available for recalling later when required. Learning is the acquisition of new knowledge, and memory is the retention of this knowledge. The combination of learning and memory, therefore, is the basis of all our knowledge and abilities and is what enables us to consider the past, exist in the present and plan for the future.
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Four different types of remembering are distinguished by psychologists; recollection, recall, recognition and relearning.
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It is established that there are two main categories of memory, declarative memory, and procedural memory.
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Declarative memory is all we have experienced in the form of information gained from childhood onwards and is the memory for facts and events, such as remembering, for example, birthdays, telephone numbers and historical facts.
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Procedural memory is the memory for procedures and abilities and it stores information which enables us, for example, to drive a car, tie our shoe laces or play a musical instrument.
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The memory for historical and other events, our declarative memory, may be easier to build up, but is easily lost or forgotten, whereas our memory for skills learning might require a repetitive practise (relearning), in fact, is likely to considerably improve with practise and experience - practise makes perfect.
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While little is known about the physiology of memory storage in the brain, what is known is that memory is not situated in only one part of the brain, but involves the association of several brain systems working together.
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The temporal lobe, which is located under the temporal bone above the ears is thought to be particularly important for the storage of past events and includes the temporal neocortex which is thought to be potentially the region involved in long-term memory. This region also contains a group of interconnected structures that appear to perform the declarative memory function. Studies suggest that one of these circuits through the hyppocampus and thalamus may be involved in spatial memories, whereas another circuit through the amygdala and thalmus, may be responsible for our emotional memories.
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