What is meant by the multi-store memory model?

The multi-store memory model was proposed by Atkinson and Shiffrin in 1968. The model proposes the idea of distinct memory stores and describes the flow between each of these stores. The three stores are: sensory memory, short-term memory and long-term memory. This model describes our memory as originating from our environment through our 5 senses. The sensory memory store holds the information very briefly for no longer than a couple of seconds. If the information temporarily stored here is attended to then it will 'flow' to the short term-memory store which holds information for about 20 seconds. Further to this, if the information is now rehearsed (repeating the information over and over again) it will be encoded (getting the information into our memory system) in long-term memory. The long-term memory story has unlimited capacity and duration. Once a memory has passed through these stores, then what happens? How do we recall and remember what we have stored? Through the process of retrieval, information can be brought back from long-term to short-term memory, entering the conscious mind so it can then be recalled. This describes the basic premise of the model but of course there are many studies and pieces of research that support but also question the processes involved in the model which are important to look at.