What is the working memory model?

The working memory model was designed by Baddeley and Hitch, who criticised the multi store model of memory as being too unitary. The multi store model showed the short term memory as being one very simple system, whereas the working memory model was designed to reflect the more intricate nature of short term memory. Baddeley and Hitch demonstrated how short term memory is controlled by the central executive, which sends information to the correct subsystem below it. One subsystem is the Visuo-spatial sketchpad, also known as the inner eye. This deals with information involving visuals or spatial awareness. It also helps with navigation. Another subsystem is the phonelogical loop, where sound and speech information is retained. The phonelogical loop is broke down into two parts; the articulatory rehearsal system, or the inner voice which allows you to think in words and retain verbal information, and the phonelogical store, or the inner ear that hears the inner voice and enables speech perception.
In the middle of the visuo -spatial sketchpad and the phonelogical loop is the episodic buffer. This joins the inner voice, inner ear and inner eye together. It also connects the whole of short term memory to the long term memory, enabling memories to be stored and recollected.