Encoding and complex figure recall

This study investigated the effects of type of encoding strategy (organized and disorganized) and of active versus passive encoding on memory for interrelated spatial material. Delayed recall performance for a complex, nonrepresentational two dimensional figure was measured in 120 normal young adults assigned to one of three groups that varied as to the approach used during the initial construction of the figure. Those applying self-generated strategies performed best. In addition, recall performances were significantly better for those applying a prescribed, organized strategy as compared with performances of those applying a prescribed, disorganized strategy. These effects were not attributable to differences on measures of IQ or spatial information processing. The findings indicated that, independent of memory ability, both the degree of organization and of active strategizing at encoding are determinants of recall ability for complex spatial information and suggest that these factors have implications for memory processes more generally.