Interpolated retrieval retroactively increases recall and promotes cross-episode memory interdependence

Abstract

Retrieving existing memories before new learning can lead to retroactive facilitation. Three experiments examined whether interpolated retrieval is associated with retroactive facilitation and memory interdependence that reflects integrative encoding. Participants studied two lists of cue–response word pairs that repeated across lists (A–B, A–B), appeared in list 1 (A–B, —), or included the same cues with changed responses in each list (A–B, A–C). For A–B, A–C pairs, the tasks interpolated between lists required recall of list 1 (B) responses (with or without feedback) or restudy of complete list 1 (A–B) pairs. In list 2, participants only studied pairs (experiment 1) or studied pairs, attempted to detect changed (C) responses, and attempted to recall list 1 responses for detected changes (experiments 2 and 3). On a final cued recall test, participants attempted to recall list 1 responses, indicated whether responses changed between lists, and if so, attempted to recall list 2 responses. Interpolated retrieval was associated with subsequent retroactive facilitation and greater memory interdependence for B and C responses. These correlational findings are compatible with the view that retrieval retroactively facilitates memories, promotes coactivation of existing memories and new learning, and enables integrative encoding that veridically binds information across episodes.