Classification and aural coding in short-term memory

Abstract

Analysis of errors in a short-term memory task indicates that Ss adopted 2 possible coding strategies: digit vs. letter categorization and subvocal or aural rehearsal. White noise had no effect on types of errors made or on over-all performance, but did bring out the usually covert rehearsal process. Evidence from errors and effects of noise point to a reinterpretation of "auditory" coding in terms of kinesthetic feedback produced by subvocal rehearsal.