Tööoperatiivmälu

Tööoperatiivmälu, also known as working memory, is a cognitive system that allows us to temporarily store and manipulate information required for complex cognitive tasks such as learning, reasoning, and comprehension. It is distinct from long-term memory, which stores information for extended periods. Working memory is thought to have a limited capacity and duration, meaning it can only hold a small amount of information at any given time and for a short duration unless actively rehearsed.

The concept of working memory is often described using a model proposed by Baddeley and Hitch, which comprises several components. These include the central executive, which controls attention and coordinates the other components, the phonological loop, which handles auditory information, and the visuospatial sketchpad, which processes visual and spatial information. A newer addition is the episodic buffer, which integrates information from various sources into a coherent episode.

Working memory plays a crucial role in many everyday activities. For example, when following a recipe, we use working memory to hold the current step in mind while also recalling the next step. Similarly, during a conversation, working memory is essential for keeping track of what has been said and formulating a response. Deficits in working memory are associated with various neurological and developmental conditions, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and dyslexia, highlighting its importance in cognitive function. Research continues to explore the precise mechanisms and neural underpinnings of working memory.