Previous research within the Levels of Processing framework outlines that the depth of encoding of to-be-learned information is predictive of subsequent strength of memory retention. Similarly, the focus and direction of an individual's attention can impact these processes both negatively and positively. This study sought to examine whether deep encoding requires semantic analysis, or if phonological tasks that promote holistic analysis are adequate. For the purposes of this study, participants completed two encoding tasks: a letter-level visual judgement (vowel identification) and a word-level phonological judgement (syllable evaluation). Although both tasks are traditionally considered shallow, the word-level task engages higher levels of processing than the letter-level task. Participants were then assessed for memory retention of the previously presented word stimuli. Findings indicated that phonological judgment tasks promoted greater recognition on the subsequent memory task, which is indicative of deeper encoding. These findings suggest that holistic, word-level phonological processing enhances memory retention relative to letter-level visual processing, and semantic analysis is not necessary for increased memory retention in this context.
Emily Kuehnl (Fri,) studied this question.