Individuals process stimuli at different degrees
and there is a link between the level of processing and the ability to remember. There are three degrees of processing new stimuli, which aids in assessing performance levels in memory tests. These degrees of processing are shallow, middle, and deep (Weiten, 2013). The three stages of processing are based on the belief that cognitive processing varies with intensity level. Words flashed on a screen can be used to explain the three levels of processing.
Shallow processing
is the processing of stimuli by perceptual and superficial aspects, which results in a shorter lasting memory (Weiten, 2013). Shallow processing focuses on how stimuli looks or sounds, letters contained, and the shape of stimuli. An example of shallow processing is looking at how words are printed in capital or lowercase and the length of the words. An example is the word “mom”; shallow processing focuses on the physical features of the word such as the three letters in the word and use of small letters.
Intermediate processing
focuses on recognizing and labeling stimulus. Intermediate processing takes more time and results in better memory than shallow processing. Examples of intermediate processing are recognizing a car and labeling the word “mom.”
Deep processing
entails processing stimulus by the meaningful properties of stimuli. The meaning of the verbal input of the stimuli is the point of focus in deep processing (Weisberg & Reeves, 2013). Deeper processing levels require more effort, take more time, and require more attention with the result being improved performance in memory tests. The increased processing on the information results in the improved memory test performance. The associations of the word mom or a car come to mind during deep processing. An example of deep processing is when thinking of one’s mother when looking at the word “mom.”
References
Weisberg, R. W., & Reeves, L. M. (2013). Cognition: from memory to creativity. John Wiley & Sons.
Weiten, W. (2013). Psychology: Themes and variations: Themes and variations. Cengage Learning.
