CLOA - extent of reliability of a cognitive process

Question 1

Loftus and Palmer (1974)

Answer 1

• mean estimates were highest in smashed„ condition and lowest in contacted
• results indicate that memory can be manipulated by using specifi†c words (hence, is unreliable)
• critical word in the question consistently aff‡‡ected participant‚ answers
• the use o‡f diff‡‡erent words may have influenced participants‚ mental representation/memory reconstruction of‡ the accident (activating diff schemas using the critical word)

Question 2

extent of memory reliability

Answer 2

• memory is an active reconstructive process
• every time a memory is recalled, stored info is altered
• one is forced to simplify by relying on prior knowledge
• schemas are facilitators in comprehension and memorisation
• helps to enable more effortless and efficient processing
• but schematic processing can lead to error and distortion
• should be noted that in all studies, the gist of the situation was correctly recalled
• but memory of specific details may have been influenced upon recall
• thus eyewitness testimony is fallible and should not be overly relied upon

Question 3

conclusion: to what extent is one cognitive process reliable?

Answer 3

• memory is an active reconstructive process
• Bransford and Johnson (1972) established schemas as great facilitators in the comprehension and memorization of information
• hence, reconstruction =! distortion
• however, that doesn’t mean schematic processing won’t cause error/distortion
• much empirical evidence for and against reliability
• to conclude, more research on the factors are necessary to establish a suitable conclusion

Question 4

what to write when asked “to what extent is one cognitive process reliable?”

Answer 4

• cognitive process: memory

factors affecting memory reliability:
- Loftus and Palmer (1974)