What concept did George A. Miller introduce that relates to short-term memory capacity?

Study for the University of Central Florida EXP3604 Cognitive Psychology Final Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations to prepare effectively. Ace your exam!

George A. Miller introduced the concept that short-term memory capacity is approximately seven items, plus or minus two. This principle, often referred to as "Miller's Law," suggests that the average number of objects an individual can hold in working memory is between five and nine, which importantly highlights the limitations of human cognitive processing.

This concept is significant because it informs various fields, including education and cognitive psychology, as it shapes our understanding of how much information people can effectively retain for immediate use. Understanding this capacity can aid in designing better instructional materials and improve strategies for memorization and information retention. The nuances of this idea also underscore the importance of chunking information into manageable units to enhance memory performance.

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