Baddeley and Hitch, working memory model memory system.

The idea

Baddeley and Hitch proposed the working memory model as a system for temporarily holding and manipulating information during cognitive tasks. It contains a central executive that controls attention and coordinates three slave systems: the phonological loop, which holds verbal and acoustic information; the visuospatial sketchpad, which holds visual and spatial information; and the episodic buffer, which integrates information from the other components and links it to long-term memory. In sport, a footballer may use the phonological loop to remember a coach's verbal instruction, the visuospatial sketchpad to track player positions, and the central executive to decide the next pass. The model explains how several pieces of information can be processed at once during performance.

What earns the marks

• The working memory model was proposed by Baddeley and Hitch.
• The central executive controls attention and coordinates the slave systems.
• The phonological loop processes verbal and acoustic information.
• The visuospatial sketchpad processes visual and spatial information.
• The episodic buffer integrates information across components and links it to long-term memory.
• The model explains simultaneous temporary storage and manipulation of information during tasks.

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Misunderstanding: the central executive stores information itself.

  Put it right: It controls attention and coordinates the slave systems rather than acting as a store.

• Misunderstanding: the phonological loop handles visual information.

  Put it right: It handles verbal and acoustic information, while the visuospatial sketchpad handles visual and spatial information.

• Misunderstanding: the episodic buffer is the same as long-term memory.

  Put it right: It is a temporary store that integrates information and links it to long-term memory.

• Misunderstanding: working memory is the same as short-term memory.

  Put it right: Working memory includes active manipulation and coordination, not just passive storage.

Exam tips

• Match each component to its function before selecting an option, especially central executive versus slave systems.
• Reject options that give a slave system a function belonging to another component.
• Use a sporting scenario to test each option, such as remembering a verbal cue while tracking opponents.