Sensory memory and attentional control as a pre-requisite for working memory processes

Typically, working memory models stress the function of maintaining information in the service of higher cognitive functions. We discuss another aspect of working memory: In accordance with models suggesting a close interaction of working memory and the attentional system (i.e. Cowan, 1999) we investigate the interaction of involuntary attention and central executive processes as a prerequisite for both information maintenance and flexible reaction on unexpected changes in the environment. The present review shows the importance of controlling the effects of pre-attentive sensory processing and the voluntary re-orienting to task-relevant information. It leads to an integrative working memory model including information storage, attention, and sensory processing.