Explain the following methods of retaining and retrieving information from memory:
Chunking
The capacity of the short term memory can be increased by chunking which is association of related items
A method of easily retaining and retrieving information from memory
A method of retaining / retrieving information from memory
Describe the limitations and failures of memory.
The brains ability to to function well and process information depends on a number of factors. These include how accurate and complete the information is stored in the memory, how long ago it was learned or reinforced, whether the learner was preoccupied when the information was learnt and if negative circumstances or stress was a factor at the time of learning or attempted retrieval.
Despite the huge capacity of the memory of the brain, it can give its attention to only one thing at a time. It can however carry out several automated actions simultaneously, although such actions are subject to error and require periodical monitoring.
The brain is very good at switching rapidly from one task to the another; this means it can effectively divide its attention to monitor and even carry out several different activities seemingly at the same time. This is called divided attention.
Describe the following types of memory ...
This is where information is received by the senses and sorted
Images, sounds, smells etc are retained for just 1-2 seconds so we know which are needing attention before they are lost
The short term memory holds the events and information received in the recent past – up to 30 seconds
The capacity of the short term memory is limited to 7 +/- 2 unrelated items of information retained until it is over-written
Short term memory makes the decisions; information received by the senses is compared to relevant information stored in the long term memory
This information is under long term storage with a high capacity and a low rate of decay
Once stored it is never lost
Once new skills are learnt they become an automatic action and pass into the motor / skills memory
Describe a basic model of information processing, including the concepts of ...
Information enters the sensation and sensory memory where some but not all of it is processed. Important or relevant information is transferred to the short term working memory for further processing.
From this information the person is able to develop an awareness of the surrounding situation.
From this awareness the person is able to make appropriate decisions and carry out appropriate actions. All of this initial sensing and evaluation takes place in the brain’s short term memory.
To make decisions the brain uses both sensation/sensory information and related information already stored in the long term memory.
Human information is thus a continual process of receiving, sorting, comparing, deciding upon and discarding data.
Identify the human senses pilots depend on for information acquisition.
Describe methods by which age-related changes in memory and speed of information processing can be moderated by older pilots.
They may become aware of their own limitations physically and mentally
May do an “ageing pilot” specific assessment for mental capabilities and coordination
Maybe more frequent flying assessments are needed
Identify normal physiological and behavioural changes with age that have a bearing on private pilot performance.
Describe methods of managing fatigue.
Can be relieved by decreasing the pilots workload / stressors and by increasing rest and sleep
Explain the difference between acute and chronic fatigue.
Acute fatigue is short lasting
Chronic fatigue is prolonged and can be caused by insufficient good quality sleep, time zones, shift work
Describe the symptoms of fatigue.