Remembering Names

SKILL: Memory

DIFFICULTY: 4/5

LEVELS: 4 based on time delay from 0 seconds- 2 minutes

BRIEF RATIONALE: This treatment teaches you how to use internal memory strategies to recall unfamiliar names using a step-by-step approach.

You will see an image of a new person before learning their name to establish a mental image of their face. This sequential learning approach is called pre-exposure.

Then, you will use the RASP approach to remember the person's first name:

REPEAT: Repeating a name requires focused attention, which is necessary to move the information into short-term memory.
ASSOCIATE: Connecting items together during the encoding process helps to move information into long-term memory. You will be encouraged to connect the name with someone you know, a distinguishing personal feature, an object, or a word that rhymes or starts with the same sound.
SPEAK: Saying the association aloud requires cognitive effort to promote learning.
PICTURE: Combining visual imagery with other internal memory strategies enhances the learning process.

During the delay period, you will interact with a non-language-based distraction (Tic Tac Toe) or a language-based distraction (Word Search). This discourages the use of rehearsal as the primary strategy.

HINT: Three hint buttons are available in the lower-left corner of the screen. Using the hint will mark the item as incorrect, but may help you remember the name.

VIEW STRATEGY: Reveals your typed association strategy
FIRST LETTER: Reveals the first letter of the name
MULTIPLE CHOICE: Provides three multiple choice options

After learning three names, you will have the opportunity to review previous names and self-assess the quality of your association. This added metacognitive layer increases awareness and will eventually help you form effective associations independently.

The inclusive database of 50+ names and pictures allows for repeated practice opportunities, which is a key factor in successful memory rehabilitation.

Selected References:

Kalla, T., Downes, J. J., & de Broek, M. vann. (2001). The pre-exposure technique: Enhancing the effects of errorless learning in the acquisition of face–name associations. Neuropsychological Rehabilitation, 11(1), 1–16. Rosi, A., Vecchi, T. & Cavallini, E. (2019). Metacognitive-strategy training promotes decision-making ability in older adults. Open Psychology, 1(1), 200-214. https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/psych-2018-0014/html
Velikonja, D., Ponsford, J., Janzen, S., Harnett, A., Patsakos, E., Kennedy, M., Togher, L., Teasell, R., McIntyre, A., Welch-West, P., Kua, A., & Bayley, M. T. (2023). INCOG 2.0 guidelines for cognitive rehabilitation following traumatic brain injury, part V: Memory. Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation, 38(1), 83–102. https://doi.org/10.1097/htr.0000000000000837