Strategies for memory improvement

1. The role of organisation


Mnemonics based on visual imagery:
-Peg word system and Method of Loci.
Paivio 1965: (DUAL CODING HYPOTHESIS)
Found p's recall concrete nouns better than abstract words. Explained findings in terms of dual coding hypothesis where concrete words are encoded once as a verbal code and then as a visual image. In terms of the WMM, verbally presented items and visual images would be held in different loops so would be easy to do.
Organisation and understanding
If we understand context, we're more likely to remember.
Bransford and Johnson (1972): (LAUNDRY)
read a passage to 2 groups, only one knew the title. This helped them understand it and made them able to recall it.
Chunking:
-Increases STM capacity, reduces load on memory and is more understandable.
Katona: (REDUCE LOAD ON MEMORY)
found chunking involves organising material to make it more understandable and reduces load on memory in her digit span task.
Encoding and retrieval strategies:
- Encoding specificity principle: 'recall better when retrieval context like encoding context'
Ucros (1989): (MOOD STATE DEPEDANCY)reviewed study on mood state dependent memory. Found a better recall if mood matched when learned.
Active processing:
Craik and Lockhart (1975): (ENGAGEMENT WITH STIMULUS= GOOD MEMORY)
carried out a memory test in four conditions. Found meaningful engagement with the stimulus leads to better recall and p's don't have to make a deliberate effort to remember. 
They believed semantic processing is effective as it activates numbers associated with LTM, retrieval easier as more retrieval routes set up.
The role of attention and practice:
People won't remember anything if no attention is paid
Erricson and Chase (1981): (REVISING)
studied an individual who practiced memorising a list of digits an hour a day for two years showing the importance of practice.