The visuospatial sketchpad is a core component of the working memory model proposed by Baddeley and Hitch (1974). It is responsible for temporarily storing and manipulating visual and spatial information, allowing individuals to retain and process imagery-based content. The visuospatial sketchpad plays a crucial role in activities such as mental rotation, spatial reasoning, and navigation (Baddeley, 2003).
The visuospatial sketchpad consists of two subsystems: the visual cache, which stores static visual information like colors and shapes, and the inner scribe, which processes spatial and movement-based information. Research has demonstrated the significance of the visuospatial sketchpad in cognitive tasks such as problem-solving, object recognition, and scene visualization (Logie, 1995). For example, mental rotation tasks, where individuals visualize and manipulate objects in their minds, rely heavily on this component of working memory (Shepard & Metzler, 1971).
Understanding the visuospatial sketchpad has contributed to insights into cognitive processes, developmental psychology, and neuropsychological conditions that affect spatial reasoning and memory.
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Geoffrey W. Sutton, Professor Emeritus of Psychology at Evangel University, holds a master’s degree in counseling and a PhD in psychology from the University of Missouri-Columbia. His postdoctoral work encompassed education and supervision in forensic and neuropsychology. As a licensed psychologist, he conducted clinical and neuropsychological evaluations and provided psychotherapy for patients in various settings, including schools, hospitals, and private offices. During his tenure as a professor, Dr. Sutton taught courses on psychotherapy, assessment, and research. He has authored over one hundred publications, including books, book chapters, and articles in peer-reviewed psychology journals. His website is https://suttong.com
References
Baddeley, A. (2003). Working memory and language: An overview. Journal of Communication Disorders, 36(3), 189-208. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0021-9924(03)00019-4
Baddeley, A., & Hitch, G. (1974). Working memory. In G. H. Bower (Ed.), The psychology of learning and motivation (Vol. 8, pp. 47-89). Academic Press. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0079-7421(08)60452-1
Logie, R. H. (1995). Visuo-spatial working memory. Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.
Shepard, R. N., & Metzler, J. (1971). Mental rotation of three-dimensional objects. Science, 171(3972), 701-703. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.171.3972.701
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