The contents of working memory as the activated component of long-term memory: a literature review on the activated long-term memory model

Abstract

Introduction: memory research traditionally views working memory (WM) and long-term memory (LTM) as separate processes, with WM holding and manipulating information temporarily, while LTM stores it indefinitely. Recent studies suggest these systems may be interconnected, with WM acting as an activated subset of LTM. Neuroscientific evidence, including fMRI studies, shows overlapping prefrontal activation during tasks involving both memory types. This review examines the theory of WM as an activated component of LTM, evaluating supporting and opposing evidence, and exploring the neural mechanisms underlying their interaction.

Objectives: this literature review aims to examine the relationship between working memory (WM) and long-term memory (LTM) in cognitive neuroscience. Specifically, it explores the theory that WM may be an activated component of LTM and evaluates the evidence supporting this idea. Additionally, it investigates recent findings suggesting that WM and LTM are not entirely separate systems but may be interconnected. The review also focuses on understanding the neural mechanisms, particularly prefrontal activation, that facilitate the interaction between these two memory systems.

Methodology: this review analyzes recent studies on the interaction between working memory (WM) and long-term memory (LTM), focusing on fMRI, neuropsychological research, and experimental tasks. It examines evidence for and against the activated LTM model, particularly regarding prefrontal brain activation during tasks involving both memory systems. Additionally, it explores cognitive theories on the integration of these systems.

Results: the literature review shows that working memory (WM) and long-term memory (LTM) are interconnected, with overlapping activation in prefrontal regions during tasks involving both. Functional MRI studies suggest that WM relies on LTM for retrieval, particularly when task complexity exceeds WM capacity. The prefrontal cortex plays a key role in both executive control and memory retrieval. However, there is evidence that WM and LTM may function separately in simpler tasks, indicating a need for further research to clarify their relationship. Overall, their interaction is complex and context-dependent.

Conclusion: the findings suggest that working memory (WM) and long-term memory (LTM) are interconnected, with both sharing activation in the prefrontal cortex. This collaboration supports complex cognitive functions, though the activated LTM model is still debated. Future research should explore the mechanisms behind their interaction, particularly in executive control and attention.