when does encoding take place?

9 hours ago 1
Nature

Encoding takes place during the initial process of converting information into a form that can be stored and used. In a biological context related to memory, encoding begins with perception and the brain's interaction with novel situations, triggering molecular events that lead to memory formation. These changes involve modifications to neural synapses, protein synthesis, and gene expression to consolidate memories. Encoding is the first step in short-term memory formation, which can later become long-term memory during consolidation. In communication theory, encoding takes place after a sender has an idea to communicate and converts that idea into a message form that can be sent through a channel to a receiver. So, broadly speaking:

  • In memory and biology, encoding happens at initial perception and interaction with new information.
  • In communication, encoding occurs when the sender formulates and converts an idea into a message before it is transmitted.

This dual perspective reflects the usage of the term "encoding" in different fields but both involve transformation of information into a usable or transmittable form.