FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What characteristic is attributed to long-term memory?

1. Limited capacity and temporary storage

2. Unlimited and permanent retention

3. Fast retrieval but brief duration

4. Focused on emotional rather than factual memories

The correct answer is: Unlimited and permanent retention

Long-term memory is characterized by its ability to retain information for extended periods, often for a lifetime. This retention can be nearly unlimited, as it is not constrained by the same limitations found in short-term memory, which has a limited capacity and duration. In long-term memory, information can be stored indefinitely, allowing individuals to recall past experiences, knowledge, and learned skills over time. This permanence is vital for learning, as it provides a repository of knowledge that can be built upon as an individual continues to grow and develop intellectually and personally. In contrast, other characteristics, such as those mentioning limited capacity and temporary storage, pertain more to short-term memory. Fast retrieval with brief duration also captures aspects of short-term memory functionality rather than long-term memory. Finally, while emotional memories can indeed have a profound impact on memory, long-term memory encompasses both factual and emotional memories, making it a more expansive and inclusive concept.