Computation <--> Learning and Memory

The speed of thinking process gives us approximate range of time scale that we do real-time computation. And our very long-lasting memory tells us the time scale of the corresponding memory processes. The former computation is most likely performed by fast dynamical systems, and the latter is hypothesized to be based on long-term synaptic plasticity. The important question is "How are these time scales connected"?

Among the underlying biophysical systems, the spike-timing dependent plasticity (STDP) is one of the possible mechanisms. If learning and memory is trying to store and recall the fast dynamics that it is performing now, it is necessary to be able to do prediction of its own dynamics. Hence, mechanisms like STDP that enhances the causal connections would be a very good start.