In listening processing, what memory stores sounds before processing?

In listening processing, what memory stores sounds before processing?

• A. Short-Term Memory
• B. Long-Term Memory
• C. Echoic Memory
• D. Working Memory

Answer: (A)

Auditory information is briefly stored in echoic memory, a sensory memory for sounds. It keeps what you’ve just heard for a short moment—around a few seconds—so you have time to perceive and begin processing it. This buffer is what lets you catch speech and other auditory input before it moves into working or short-term processing. Long-term memory holds information for much longer, and short-term/working memory is where you actively hold and manipulate information you’re currently using. So the memory that stores sounds before processing is echoic memory.

Auditory information is briefly stored in echoic memory, a sensory memory for sounds. It keeps what you’ve just heard for a short moment—around a few seconds—so you have time to perceive and begin processing it. This buffer is what lets you catch speech and other auditory input before it moves into working or short-term processing. Long-term memory holds information for much longer, and short-term/working memory is where you actively hold and manipulate information you’re currently using. So the memory that stores sounds before processing is echoic memory.