Identify a true statement about elaboration in memory.
O Group of answer choices
O Deep, elaborate processing weakens the process of remembering.
O The process of elaboration is evident only in the mental activity of the brain.
O Relating material to one’s own experience is an effective way to elaborate on information.
O The more elaborate the processing of a stimulus, the weaker the memory will be.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is:
“Relating material to one’s own experience is an effective way to elaborate on information.”
Explanation:
Elaboration in memory refers to the process of adding meaning to new information by linking it to prior knowledge. This strategy enhances memory retention and recall by creating more complex and meaningful connections between pieces of information.
One of the most effective ways to elaborate on new material is through self-referential processing—relating the information to one’s own experiences. When we connect new knowledge to personal memories or real-life situations, it becomes more meaningful and easier to retrieve later. This is because personal experiences create strong neural connections, reinforcing the learning process.
For example, if a student is trying to memorize the concept of classical conditioning, they might recall a personal experience of associating a specific song with a happy event. This self-referential encoding strengthens the memory by linking the abstract concept to something concrete and personally significant.
Deep processing, which involves analyzing and engaging with information in a meaningful way, strengthens rather than weakens memory. In contrast, shallow processing (such as rote memorization) leads to weaker retention. Elaborative processing ensures that information is stored in long-term memory rather than quickly forgotten.
Additionally, elaboration activates multiple areas of the brain, such as the prefrontal cortex (responsible for higher-order thinking) and the hippocampus (critical for memory formation). This broad neural engagement makes memories more durable and retrievable.
In summary, elaboration is a powerful memory strategy, and relating material to one’s own experience is one of the best ways to enhance learning and retention.