Cognitive approach Flashcards
what is the cognitive approach?
studies information processing the way that we extract and store and retrieve information that helps us learn behaviour
What are schemas?
a cognitive framework that helps us organise and interpret information in the brain. They help an individual make sense of a situation
Schemas based on specific events are based on expectations on how one should behave
They allow us to take shortcuts on behaviour
what are theoretical models?
models such as the multi-store model of memory or the working memory models which are oversimplified explanations and representation based on current evidence
what are computer models?
refers to the process of using computer analogies as a representation of human cognition
Information is inputted in the senses, encoded in memory and then combined with previously stored information to complete a task. I.e a computer working memory model
name an evaluation point
studies may lack ecological validity
experiments in memory may use artificial test materials that are meaningless in everyday life than being based on memory that is useful
This mean that information cannot be generalised to reali life situations
name a second evaluation point
the cognitive approach ignores emotion and motivation
it tells us how different cognitive approaches take place without the why
this means that the role of emotion and motivation has been ignored
reveals an over-dependence on processing analogies
name a third evaluation point
limited explanatory powers
it uses computer models to explain basic human functioning
For example terms such as encoding, storage and retrieval are borrowed from the field of computing
However there is significance between the type of processing that takes place between humans and computing . Computers do not make mistakes not do they ignore information stored in their hard drives
name a final evaluation point
the cognitive approach is scientific
the use of experimental methods provide researchers with a rigorous method for collecting evaluating evidence in order to reach accurate conclusions about how the mind works
