cognitive area questions

Question 1

what are the two principles of the area

Answer 1

1) mental cognitive processes are key to understanding human behaviour
2)the mind can be seen as an information processor (input, processing and output of information)

Question 2

what are two strengths of the cognitive area

Answer 2

takes a scientific approach to studying behaviour
many useful applications

Question 3

Point: one strength of the cognitive area is that it takes a scientific approach to studying behaviour
give the explanation and evidence for this

Answer 3

This is a strength as it means extraneous variables are controlled so that the internal validity of the study is increased. This ensures that cause and effect can be established. In Grants study all participants in the noisy condition listened to the same recording of the university cafeteria at lunch time.

Question 4

Point: The cognitive rea has lots of useful practical applications
give the explanation and evidence for this

Answer 4

Findings from research can be applied to real life situations to improve or change the way in which groups of people or profesions work. Loftus and Palmer suggests that leading questions can affect an individuals memory. In courts, whitnesses memory could be distorted by the questions they are asked.

Question 5

what are two weaknesses of the cognitive area

Answer 5

can be considered reductionist
reduces ecological validity

Question 6

Point: One weakness is that it can be considered reductionist
Give the explanation and point

Answer 6

The area suggests that behaviour is influenced by one simple procesess; input, process, output. Therefore ignoring other processes involved in cognition. In simon and chabris study they suggest that the unexpected event wasnt seen due to attention. However it could be due to poor eyesight.

Question 7

Point: The research reduced ecological validity
Give the explanation and point

Answer 7

This is a weakness as the findings from research may not reflect how behvaiours occur in real life and therefore reduce the usefulness of the research. Morays study doesnt represent everyday normal behavoiur. One recording was a story and the other was a list of words played repeatedly. This is not common in everyday behaviour

Question 8

How can the cognitive area help is in real life

Answer 8

eye whitness testimony
memory aids for exams
advertising of products
teaching and learning