Contrary to standard models which propose that LTM retrieval is mediated by WM, our findings show that attention can be selectively directed to LTM representations independently of WM.

This reveals an important dissociation in the mechanisms that prioritize information within memory systems.

(6/6)

Eye-tracking data revealed significant gaze shifts and microsaccades associated with attention in WM. In contrast, no significant gaze biases were observed for LTM, indicating distinct attentional mechanisms.

(5/6)

Notably, visual discrimination of unrelated stimuli improved at attended WM locations. Similar enhancements at LTM locations were less consistent, further supporting the dissociation between attending to contents within WM and LTM.

(4/6)

Our findings indicate that attentional orienting benefits both WM and LTM retrieval. However, the effects are more pronounced in WM, suggesting differing underlying processes.

(3/6)

Using retrospective cues, we compared how attention impacts retrieval from human working memory (WM) and long-term memory (LTM).

Participants were first trained to memorize LTM items, and then retrieved WM/LTM items or performed perceptual tasks following these cues.

(2/6)