2.2.4—Cognitive models

The working-memory model describes limited short-term processing through interacting components: a central executive directs attention, while specialised systems handle verbal and visuospatial information; an episodic buffer integrates them.

The model predicts dual-task effects and explains why similar codes can interfere while different modalities may be combined. Evidence supports useful distinctions but does not make the components literal brain regions.

Repeating a phone number while reading another number competes for verbal resources. Reading a route while holding a visual map may be less disruptive because the demands differ, though the executive still coordinates them.

Working memory is not the same as permanent storage and the central executive is not an unlimited homunculus. Link each prediction to the component and task.