The level of processing model that was conceptualized by Craik & Lockhart (1972) embarks on the depth of processing that is involved in memory and it tends to predict the lasting memory trace which is a result of the processing of deeper information. According to McLeod, shallow processing entails phonemic processing and structural processing while deep processing entails the processing of semantics (2007). From the research, it is expected that those that utilized deeper processing techniques will have high memory retention than those who utilized shallow processing techniques.
Methodology
Stimuli were presented using a computer, a ceiling mounted projector, and Microsoft PowerPoint software to regulate the timing of the presentation of the memory stimuli to participants in a group setting. The stimuli were then presented for 7 seconds amid acquisition and the participants were asked to make judgments on the physical traits of the stimuli (upper or lower case) or about whether the target word had the same meaning as the word “Beautiful”. A distractor task was employed for 10 minutes between the end of acquisition and the start of the Recall phase. The recall period was for 5 minutes and was a free recall in which words could be recalled in any order. The distractor's purpose was to ensure that the participants would not have the time to rehearse the material and thus ensuring that it is not presently stored in the working memory.
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Results
The results depict that the group that utilized deeper processing techniques had more -retention of words compared to those that utilized shallow processing techniques. This is in line with the hypothesis of the study.
Discussion
As per the findings of the research, individuals that used deeper processing techniques had higher retention of words compared to those that used shallower processing techniques. These results are comparable to those of Craik & Lockhart (1972) as it depicts the significance of utilizing deeper processing techniques. Therefore, this is in accordance with the levels of processing framework, which states that stimulus information is processed at numerous tiers simultaneously contingent on its traits (Levels of Processing (F. Craik & R. Lockhart), 2020). Therefore, those processed at higher levels are easily remembered because they require more processing and thus more retention in long term memory. The major limitation of the study was that there were no standardized deeper processing techniques thus a lack of a benchmark or control to test against. Regardless, the results are still significant as it mobilizes college students to utilize deeper processing techniques to study for their exams in order to have more retention.
References
Craik, F. I. M., & Lockhart, R. S. (1972). Levels of processing: A framework for memory research. Journal of Verbal Learning and Verbal behavior, 11, 671-684.
Levels of Processing (F. Craik & R. Lockhart ) . (2020). Retrieved 23 July 2020, from https://www.instructionaldesign.org/theories/levels-processing/
Mcleod, S. (20 07 ). Levels of Processing | Simply Psychology. Retrieved 23 July 2020, from https://www.simplypsychology.org/levelsofprocessing.html#:~:text=The%20levels%20of%20processing%20model,a%20memory%20trace%20will%20last.&text=Unlike%20the%20multi%2Dstore%20model,is%20a%20non%2Dstructured%20approach .
