Twomey, C., & Kroneisen, M. (2021). The effectiveness of the loci method as a mnemonic device: Meta-analysis. Quarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology, 74(8), 1317-1326. https://doi.org/10.1177/1747021821993457
The Loci Method in the Context of Cognitive Psychology: From its Effectiveness to Neurobiological Correlates
This lecture will examine the cognitive and neural mechanisms underlying the effectiveness of the method of loci as a mnemonic strategy. We will explore its efficacy across different age groups, including young and older adults, and review evidence on the involvement of key brain regions, such as the parahippocampal gyrus or retrosplenial cortex, in supporting spatial memory during encoding and recall. Our research will also address factors such as proactive interference, the necessity of creating bizarre associations for enhanced retention, and the capacity limitations of memory locations. Additionally, we will discuss variants of the loci method, including Giordano Bruno’s Memory Wheels and the DOMINIC system, highlighting their potential for improving memory performance. Most of the theoretical foundation presented in this session will be drawn from a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis, integrating cognitive theory with empirical findings to provide a robust understanding of the method of loci in both laboratory and applied contexts.
McCabe, J. A. (2015). Location, Location, Location! Demonstrating the Mnemonic Benefit of the Method of Loci. Teaching of Psychology, 42(2), 169-173. https://doi.org/10.1177/0098628315573143