Interference

Definition

Interference refers to the phenomenon where the ability to recall or recognize information is hampered by the presence of competing information. This can occur when new information disrupts the retrieval of old memories, or when old memories hinder the acquisition of new information. Understanding interference helps clarify how attention and memory processes interact, highlighting challenges in both encoding and retrieving information, as well as how language acquisition can be influenced by pre-existing knowledge.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Interference can be classified into two main types: proactive interference, which occurs when old memories interfere with new ones, and retroactive interference, which happens when new memories affect recall of old ones.
2. In situations of divided attention, the likelihood of interference increases as multitasking can lead to decreased focus on relevant information.
3. Research has shown that high levels of interference can lead to poorer performance on memory tasks, highlighting the importance of reducing distractions during study sessions.
4. Language learners often experience interference from their first language when acquiring a second language, making it challenging to grasp new grammatical structures or vocabulary.
5. Effective encoding strategies can help mitigate interference by organizing information in a way that makes it easier to retrieve later.

Review Questions

• How does interference impact selective and divided attention during cognitive tasks?
  • Interference significantly impacts both selective and divided attention by introducing competing stimuli that can distract from relevant tasks. For example, when focusing on one task while attempting to process background noise, the distractions may hinder performance by causing cognitive overload. This can lead to mistakes or slower response times as attention shifts between competing sources of information.
• In what ways can understanding interference enhance our knowledge about encoding and retrieval processes in memory?
  • Understanding interference provides insight into the complexities of encoding and retrieval processes by highlighting how competing information affects memory performance. For instance, knowing that proactive interference can hinder the learning of new material emphasizes the importance of effective study techniques that minimize overlap with prior knowledge. This awareness allows individuals to employ strategies that optimize encoding and improve retrieval efficiency by reducing potential distractions.
• Evaluate the role of interference in bilingualism and second language acquisition, and discuss strategies to overcome its effects.
  • Interference plays a crucial role in bilingualism and second language acquisition as learners often experience challenges when their first language disrupts the learning of a second language. This can manifest in incorrect grammar usage or direct translations that do not fit context. To overcome these effects, language learners can use immersion techniques, practice speaking with native speakers, and engage in exercises that strengthen vocabulary retention without relying on their first language. By consciously separating languages during practice sessions, learners can improve fluency and reduce the negative impact of interference.

Related terms

Proactive Interference: A type of interference where previously learned information interferes with the learning or recall of new information.

Retroactive Interference: A type of interference where new information disrupts the recall of previously learned information.

Cognitive Load: The total amount of mental effort being used in the working memory, which can affect how effectively information is processed and recalled.