We rely on our memory every day. For memories to be useful to us, the brain needs to be able to do two things: store unique details from individual events and, at the same time, identify patterns that help us deal with new situations.
Our memories are constantly shaped by everyday events. For example, you might remember that you used the last of the tomatoes when cooking yesterday and therefore need to buy some more today. This is an example of episodic memory.
At the same time, memory helps us see patterns between similar experiences, which is known as semantic memory. After many visits to the supermarket, we learn where different items are usually found. When visiting a new shop, you therefore head straight for the vegetable section when you need to buy tomatoes.
Previously, researchers believed that these two memory systems operate separately and independently of one another. The new study, published in Nature Communications, shows otherwise.
“Our study shows that the brain switches between two goals in real time: storing unique moments while simultaneously identifying patterns based on previous experiences. This turns much of what we previously believed on its head, namely that the brain must choose between either remembering details or recognising patterns,” says Zhenghao Liu, one of the researchers behind the study.
Everyday method
The study recorded brain activity in 36 participants, all of whom had young, healthy brains. The researchers used a method that measures the brain’s electrical pulses using electrodes.
The researchers also used another, somewhat unusual method to collect data. The participants were shown short, pre-recorded sequences from the computer game The Sims - a game that depicts everyday situations in which the characters, known as ‘Sims’, carry out household chores and develop relationships with one another.
By showing several short clips from the game, the researchers were able to investigate how participants both recalled details of individual events and, at the same time, drew broader conclusions about what happened to the characters.
“It is unusual for research to be based on everyday situations, but our aim was to get closer to understanding how memory works in real life. That’s why we chose The Sims, where participants could relate to situations such as cooking, playing or socialising,” says Inês Bramão, psychology researcher at Lund University.
The researchers believe the results could be significant in several areas.
“The study gives us a more complete picture of how people learn and process information. That knowledge can be used in areas such as research, education and therapy,” psychology researcher Inês Bramão concludes.