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Development of memory and attention. The method of associations.

Helen
3 min readSep 12, 2024

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The development of memory and attention is a crucial aspect of cognitive psychology that has intrigued researchers and scholars for centuries. One of the prominent methods used in studying memory and attention is the method of associations, which involves linking new information to existing knowledge to enhance retention and retrieval. In this essay, we will explore the historical context, key figures, impact, and potential future developments related to the development of memory and attention using the method of associations.

One of the earliest proponents of the method of associations was Hermann Ebbinghaus, a German psychologist who is known for his pioneering work on memory in the late 19th century. Ebbinghaus conducted experiments on himself to study the nature of memory, using nonsense syllables and measuring his ability to recall them over time. His research laid the foundation for the study of memory and the importance of associations in learning and retention. Ebbinghaus’s work inspired numerous researchers to delve deeper into the mechanisms of memory and attention using the method of associations.

Another influential figure in the field of memory and attention is William James, an American philosopher and psychologist who made significant contributions to our understanding of consciousness and the human mind. James believed that attention is a…

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Helen
Helen

Written by Helen

I’m a board member for the Harvard Creative Writing Collective and an outreach associate director for Harvard Women in Computer Science.

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