Certified Healthcare Technology Specialist (CHTS) Process Workflow & Information Management Redesign Practice Exam

What is the first step in the human information-processing model?

1. Short-term memory

2. Long-term memory

3. Sensory registry

4. Cognitive recognition

The correct answer is: Sensory registry

The first step in the human information-processing model is the sensory registry. This component is responsible for receiving and briefly holding sensory information from the environment before it is processed further. The sensory registry captures various stimuli, such as visual, auditory, and tactile information, and retains it for a very short duration, typically less than a second. The role of the sensory registry is critical because it allows individuals to filter out unnecessary information and focus on what is relevant. After this initial capture, information can move to short-term memory, where it can be processed and potentially transitioned to long-term memory, or be discarded altogether. This step is essential in understanding how we process and respond to stimuli in our surroundings, forming the foundation for subsequent cognitive processes. Understanding the function of the sensory registry highlights its importance in everyday experiences, as it sets the stage for how effectively we can learn and remember information later on.