Page 187 - PPL-engelsk 2025

Human Performance

2.7.1.4 Short-Term memory

After information is received, the brain must decide what the information will

be used for. For example, if you hear a warning signal, you might choose to

dismiss it and reassure yourself that there is probably nothing wrong. This
means you have chosen an active reaction.

The second option is to remember the information while trying to figure out

what caused the warning signal.

When you remember information for a short period, it is in short-term memory.

We can retain information in short-term memory if it is repeated; otherwise, it

will disappear within 10 to 20 seconds.

If new information comes in, it will put a strain on short-term memory, and this

can cause the information to be either forgotten or mixed up with other

information.

Part of short-term memory is sensory memory. This acts as a buffer for stimuli

from the environment. All the information that reaches our senses is briefly

registered. Some is picked up and processed further, but generally, we are not

consciously aware of this memory; it is implicit.

Short-term memory is a temporary store and can hold items for only a couple

of minutes at most. It also has a limited capacity and can only work with 7 items

at a time (+/- 2 depending on the person). Short-term memory receives input

from both long-term memory and sensory memory.

We often remember verbal communication as sound images.

With unclear radio communication, it is easy to mishear a word, especially if

the words are similar, such as "fly" and "sky."

Flight Theory PPL(A)(UL)/LAPL Henning Andersen, Midtjysk Flyveskole© 2025 187