The Effectiveness of Encoding Strategies in Verbal Memory Span in Healthy Adults

Abstract

This project aimed to determine the most effective memory encoding strategy in typically developing adults. Four groups of subjects were given instructions using one of four encoding strategies: visual, semantic, spatial, and combined. We measured total short-term memory and long-term memory retention to determine how strategies affected learning across time. All encoding groups showed an advantage in memorizing 40 word-lists for verbal long-term recall and encoding effects were consistent across time. However. visual and semantic encoding strategies were most effective in supporting verbal short-term and long-term memory, while combined and spatial encoding strategies were least effective.