Keynote: Working Memory and Cognition Inside and Outside of the Focus of Attention

Speaker: Nelson Cowan, University of Missouri, USA

Summary by: Xueqing Chen, University of Bristol, UK, & Melinh Lai, The University of Chicago, USA

To kick off the Annual Meeting, Nelson Cowan, a leading figure in working memory research, delivered a compelling keynote address on the embedded-processes model. The model is a framework of information processing that he hoped researchers would use to guide their own investigations. It integrates the focus of attention within the activated portion of long-term memory, presenting a unified approach to understanding how we temporarily store and manipulate information.

Cowan began with an overview of the historical and theoretical underpinnings, including Broadbent’s well-known filter model of attention. In reviewing the key aspects, Cowan highlighted a series of ensuing questions, such as why we often observe improved recognition for only a small number of repeated items when other items with fewer exposures could still entail a sense of familiarity. After reviewing several studies that addressed different aspects of these questions, Cowan next proposed that the modular theories popularized in earlier psychological research could be further supported by more recent empirical data. This led him to overview three main aspects of the embedded-processes model:

1. The capacity of attentional focus. This aspect owes some of its lineage to George Miller’s well-known “Magical Number 7 (Plus or Minus 2),” as it involves the “chunking” of information. Importantly, however, this information activates representations in long-term memory so that it can quickly be off-loaded from attentional focus processes. This has significant implications for everyday activities like public speaking, teaching, and managing emergencies.
2. Activated portion of long-term memory. Information entering the system from the focal point of attention quickly activates a cascade of representations from long-term memory, and this level of activation also influences the rate of decay from attentional focus. For example, recent findings suggest that decay from attentional focus occurs more quickly when the information is poorly encoded. On the flip side, it seems to stay within a person’s focus for a longer period when it is studied under conditions of deeper encoding. 
3. Control of attention. Highlighting both voluntary and involuntary processes, Cowan discussed how attention is directed toward goals and away from distractions, a balance crucial for effective decision-making and communication.

Using vivid analogies, Cowan compared the focus of attention to the yolk of an egg, embedded within the larger framework of activated memory (the egg white). This analogy illustrated how these elements interact to support working memory. He also contrasted two theoretical approaches to memory organization: the domain-specific modular approach and the domain-general embedded processes approach, showing how the latter offers a more dynamic understanding of memory systems.

Cowan presented evidence from behavioral and neuroscientific studies, showing how foundational findings shaped the model and how newer research refined it. For example, the persistence of temporary activation and the interplay of attentional mechanisms were discussed in the context of lifespan development, from childhood to adulthood. He also connected these findings to practical applications, such as improving teaching strategies, enhancing public presentations, and optimizing emergency response protocols.

Cowan’s talk concluded with a discussion of the practical implications of these findings, emphasizing how understanding the limitations and strengths of working memory can improve real-world outcomes in education, communication, and health. Cowan’s work continues to bridge the gap between theoretical frameworks and applied science, inspiring future research into the mechanisms of attention and memory.

What a great start to this year's Annual Meeting!

Review the presentation here.

Friday offers a wealth of opportunities to engage with cutting-edge research, expand your knowledge, and connect with your fellow Psychonomes! Be sure to attend today's Symposia, followed by the Diversity & Inclusion Reception (sponsored by the PS Diversity & Inclusion Committee) starting at 5:45 PM ET.

Cap off your day by exploring Poster Sessions, and connecting at the Student Social at 9 PM ET, where you can continue conversations and build lasting connections.

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