There are many ways (some suggest there are hundreds) to describe the various processes by which we remember. Interestingly, at Arrowsmith we observe that each of our cognitive functions feature their own type of memory.
Understanding memory through a series of cognitive functions and networks, also explains why memory is notoriously inconsistent. Indeed, why many are accused of having “selective” memory.
Students are often seen as intentionally forgetful or careless in their classes or study habits. In fact, it's very likely cognitive functions are holding them back.
There’s a whole industry of memory aids – making lists, schedulers, timers, colour codes, apps, locator devices.
These aids work: sometimes. They won’t help in all situations, or when trying to remember certain things. They certainly cannot replace the processes in our brain that know what to remember, how to remember, and how to apply and generalize our learning to new and different situations.
Deteriorating memory is also seen as a trademark of aging, a symptom many believe to be an inevitable part of life. This is not the case.
You can find more information on this topic in Chapter 18, Drawing a Blank, of Barbara Arrowsmith-Young’s, The Woman Who Changed Her Brain.
