Jordan Norman

Professor Katerina Salini

Psychology 1010-001
11 April 2017
Significant Learning: Memory
I never realized that one could train their mind to deal more efficiently with memory
before taking this course. I always thought that some people had a great memory and others
simply had bad retention. I did not know that one is not stuck with the hand they were dealt.
Learning how one can hone the processes of encoding, storage, and retrieval has aided me in
making more effective use of my study time. My exam scores are proof of the progress.
Improving my encoding became the first focus. As explained by King, the more
elaborate the processing, the better the memory will be. (King, 2013) I began meticulously
using self-reference to tie my new learning to myself making it more relevant and easier for me
to remember. Making the connections was not a simple task when it came to studying for a math
exam. However, it helped me in bringing in more vivid memory to store in my brain for later
retrieval.
Training myself to store newly formed memories more efficiently was more of a
challenge. The adequate transition from short-term to long-term memory takes practice. Getting
new information to survive that process while retaining their accuracy requires some work.
Specifically, rehearsal became an invaluable tool. I began rehearsing the things I had learned
with friends and family. In turn, it helped my friends who also attend Salt Lake Community
College when they picked up the habit.
Retrieving the information once logged into storage got easier as my encoding and
storage practices became more competent. The information I needed seemed to flow like water.
My assignments and test scores improved simultaneously. Writing from memory became a
breeze and the time expended became less and less.
Learning how to retain information in my memory more efficiently has been one of the
most beneficial skills I have learned, not only in college but life. That is not to say that I am
infallible, but it has helped me exponentially. It seems these practices have become second nature
to me. However, I plan to continue honing these processes of encoding, storage, and retrieval to
aid in my success well after my academic career has terminated.
 Works Cited
King, L. A. (2013). Experience Psychology (2nd ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.