Date of Award
Spring 2024
Degree Type
Capstone Project
Degree Name
B.S. in Interior Design
Department
Design and Innovation
Second Advisor
Kim Buchholz
Third Advisor
Dustin Altschul
Abstract
Memories have served as a fundamental conduit for transmitting history across generations, whether shared around a dining room table or by the flickering flames of a campfire. These memories serve as our bridge to the past, offering invaluable lessons from prior experiences. The process through which information is transformed into lasting memories is known as encoding.
Encoding, in essence, relies on our sensory faculties, encompassing taste, smell, touch, vision, and hearing. These senses enable us to capture and preserve information within the intricate framework of our brains. An exploration of the individual strengths and weaknesses inherent in each sensory modality opens the door to enhancing our capacity for information retention, while concurrently addressing the limitations of these processes. This prompts an examination of how impairments can impact these senses and subsequently influence our ability to process information.
A comprehensive study of memory necessitates an inquiry into memory loss and the challenge of retaining information. By delving into the vulnerabilities of the human brain and assessing two prevalent theories, the Decaying theory and the Interference theory, we can gain deeper insights into the intricate workings of memory.
This research endeavors to unearth the profound role of encoding in shaping information into memories and the manner in which disabilities or impairments can disrupt this crucial cognitive process. Furthermore, it underscores the potential of designed spaces to not only stimulate memory creation but also enhance the likelihood of preserving these cherished recollections.
Recommended Citation
Schneider, Jared, "Designed Memories: How can the built environment affect memories" (2024). Capstone Projects. 104.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/capstone_projects/104