Investigating the Role of Schema in the Retrieval of Semantic, Episodic and Event memory

In this project, we assessed the role of schema-consistent and schema-inconsistent information during the retrieval of semantic, episodic, and event memories. In experiment 1, participants were trained in the laboratory to develop a new schema by providing consistent and inconsistent feedback. In experiment 2, a naturally-developed schema (cultural life script) was employed to investigate if schema-consistent and schema-inconsistent episodic memories are recalled and recognised differently. Findings revealed that participants applied schema-consistent information for concept formation and semantic memory retrieval. However, schema-inconsistent event and episodic memories were better recalled than schema-consistent ones. Moreover, information related to high-frequent cultural life script was better recalled than low-frequent ones.