Complex Prospective Memory and Executive Control of Working Memory: A Process Model

摘要: Summary Recent research on prospective memory suggests the involvement of executive functions in explaining performance complex task environments. However, few theoretical concepts specify which contribute to performance. Moreover, it is unclear are required course process. Therefore, we argue that should be conceptualized as a multi-phasic process and propose model disentangles four different phases: (a) forming an intention, (b) maintaining (c) initiating intended action, (d) executing intention. Empirical tests with eighty adults reveal more than 50 percent variance predicted by measures. Of those, planning cognitive flexibility particularly important predictors. The discussion focuses role particular predicting specific phases remembering. Key words: memory, functions, planning, flexibility, inhibition, working According Neisser (1982), "to remember" stands for two everyday processes: "remembering what must do" have done." current literature refers first type remembering second retrospective (Einstein & McDaniel, 1990, 1996). Although its proper labeling still under (Burgess, 2000; Crowder, 1996; Ellis, Goschke Kuhl, 1996), field "is booming" (Roediger, 1996, p. 149; cf also Ellis Kvavilashvili, 2000). Interest largely based relevance life, example having remember attend meeting, buy certain item grocery store, or manage various daily tasks at home work. mechanisms underlying become issue major interest. In searching processes differences remembering, some researchers focused related (e.g., recency proximity effects; Hitch Ferguson, 1991). general hypothesis many studies was that, principle, can explained same well-known such delayed recall (Crowder, recent work, impact another process, i.e., has been investigated. Consistently, tasks, these report capacity predicts significant amounts Cherry LeCompte, 1999; Kliegel, McDaniel Einstein, Martin Park, 1999). sum, parts existing suggest explain this conclusion might premature reasons. First, most empirical only weak relations between (Cockburn, 1995; Holland, Guynn, 1992; Einstein 1990; Kliegel et al., 1987). Second, analyses requires just memory. fact, seems obvious life one typically works several "subtasks" order perform well task: One form keep intention mind while ongoing activities, monitor environment initiate action appropriate time, according previously planned (Ellis, …