How Chunks Form In Long-Term Memory And Affect Short-Term Memory Limits

We address the question of whether information in short-term memory can be conceived of as the activated portion of long-term memory. The main problem for this conception is that short-term memory must include new associations between items that are not already present in long-term memory (or sometimes between items and serial positions). Relevant evidence is obtained from a task in which new word pairings are taught and then embedded within a short-term serial-recall task. We conclude that rapid long-term learning occurs in short-term memory procedures, and that this rapid learning can explain the retention of new associations. We propose that new associations are formed between elements concurrently held in the focus of attention, and that these new associations quickly become part of long-term memory. An understanding of rapid learning appears to be necessary to understand capacity limits in short-term memory.