Central Executive

Question 1

Where is the central executive thought to be located?

Answer 1

Frontal lobes.

Question 2

What is the central executive?

Answer 2

An attentional controller that directs working memory (Baddeley et al 2015)

Question 3

What are the 2 modes of the central executive as discussed by Norman and Shallice (1986)

Answer 3

1) Based on existing knowledge, habits; an automatic system

2) Based on an attentionally limited executive

Question 4

What happens when conflicts occur between the 2 modes? (Baddeley et al, 2015)

Answer 4

Assumed to be well-learned automatic procedures that resolve conflicts

Question 5

What happens when conflicts cannot be resolved?

Baddeley et al, 2015

Answer 5

A second system is used: supervisory attentional system. This system intervenes in favour of one strategy over the other

Question 6

What are the major functions of the central executive? (Baddeley et al, 2015)

Answer 6

1) Attentional focus on current task

2) Dividing attention between 2 or more tasks

Question 7

What did Baddeley’s (1991) studies on patients with Alzheimer’s conclude?

Answer 7

Pts find dividing attention particularly hard compared to control groups; clear dual task deficit

Question 8

How are Brown et al’s (1969) findings relevant to central executive theory?

Answer 8

Concurrent verbal reasoning tasks whilst driving did not affect skill but disrupted judgement in gauging gap size and distance (neglect of processes rather than skill deficit)

Question 9

How did Holding (1989) test the subcomponents of working memory?

Answer 9

Asking chess players to count backwards whilst playing. Disrupted ability to remember chess position