News

Memory Experiment Takes Off

(13 January 2012)

The experiment, run on the Guardian newspaper website, is for members of the public to test their memory abilities and find out how they compare with their friends.

Anybody can participate by clicking on http://www.guardian.co.uk/memorystudy  and test their memory abilities for free from the comfort of their own homes.

Dr Charles Fernyhough, from Durham’s Psychology Department, said: "Remembering is one of the most fascinating and complex functions that our minds perform.  With this study we hope to shed further light on how the brain fits together the different bits of information that go to make up a memory."

The experiment, which will take just a few minutes to complete, investigates features of long-term memory (our ability to remember events we have experienced).  Participants will study words presented on the screen and different aspects of their memory for the words will be assessed.  All data will be collected anonymously and participants will be able to find out how their memory scores compare to those obtained by previous participants.  They will also be able, should they wish, to share their score with friends via Facebook or Twitter.

Please note that although this test will help further our understanding in this area of research, it is not intended to be used as a diagnostic tool for memory problems.