Cognitive Approach AO3

Question 1

Strength

Answer 1

-uses objective, scientific methods
-involved the use of lab studies to produce reliable data.allowed biology and cognitive psychology to come together to enhance scientific basis of study
-allowed cognitive psychologists to employ highly controlled, rigorous methods of study
- study of the mind has credible scientific basis

Question 2

Counterpoint

Answer 2

-considered too abstract or theoretical in nature
-relies on inferences of IMP, relies on studying them in artificial settings with artificial tasks
-cannot study these processes directly if we are making inferences which limits how valid the claims about IMP
-processes could lack external validity

Question 3

Strength

Answer 3

-practical applications
-made important contributions to artificial intelligence and development of ‘thinking machines’
-can help revolutionise the way we live in the future
-supports the value of the cognitive approach

Question 4

Limitation

Answer 4

-based on machine reductionism
-has been criticised as humans are more complex
-should not be applying the cognitive approach as heavily to certain aspects of life
-may weaken the validity of the cognitive approach