Cognitive SAQ Terminology Flashcards
Memory
The mental process of encoding, storing and retrieving information.
Memory model
A hypothesized representation of memory
Multi store model
Atkinson and Shiffrin, three types of memory: sensory, short-term, long-term. Sensory -> short term is attention and rehearsal, short term -> long term is consolidation, long term -> short term is retrieval.
Working memory model
STM has four main components: central executive (controls attention), phonological loop (for sounds), visuospatial sketchpad (for images), episodic buffer (temporary memory storage until needed)
Schema
A cluster of knowledge or memory that is stored in the mind in fragments that allows individuals to interpret and understand the world around them.
Framework
Schemas operate by selectively organizing the on-going experience of each person into subjectively meaningful patterns.
Reconstruction
An imperfect replica of a situation or memory formed by the piecing together of schemas and other fragments of memories.
Thinking
The process of using knowledge and information to make plans, interpret the world, and make predictions about the world in general
Decision-making
The process of identifying and choosing between alternatives.
Dual process theory
Assumes we think in two ways, rational thinking and automatic thinking.
Controlled thinking
Also known as System 2 thinking. More analytical and goal-directed thinking are requires time and effort
Automatic thinking
Also known as System 1 thinking. It is fast, automatic and requires little to no thought.
Heuristics
A mental shortcut that allows people to solve problems and make judgments quickly and efficiently.
Internal validity
The extent to which a study actually demonstrates the relationship that it intended to.
External validity
The extent to which the results can be generalized to other contexts.
Reliability
A measure of consistency within results of psychological research.
Correlation vs causation
Correlation is a link between two variables whereas causation is when one variable directly affects a change in the other. Correlation does not imply causation.
Purpose of ethical considerations
To ensure participants (both humans and animals) are not harmed and that research conducted is ethically valid.
BPS/APA
British Psychological Society, American Psychological Association. They established lists of ethical considerations that must be adhered to for research to be accepted.
Cognitive processing
Processes including perception, thinking, problem solving, memory, language and attention, processes that happen within the brain.
Levelling
The tendency to discard minor details and distinctions.
Sharpening
Exaggerating or making certain aspects of memory more profound.
Assimilation
The adjustment of a schema by adding information similar to what is already known.
Bias
A tendency to respond one way compared to another when making a decision, they are systematic errors in judgement that have a negative impact on thinking and decision-making.
Anchoring bias
A cognitive bias that causes us to rely too heavily on the first piece of information we are given about a topic.
Illusory correlation
When a relationship between two variables is identified when, in fact, no relationship exists.
Halo effect
The idea that people who are judged to be attractive are typically perceived in a positive light.
Emotion
A strong feeling deriving from one’s circumstances, mood, or relationships with others.
Flashbulb memory
Exceptionally vivid and highly detailed ‘snapshots’ of moments or circumstances in response to important, surprising or traumatising events.
Now print
A special mechanism which exists in the brain, which issues an order to preserve moments of great personal significance.
Amygdala
A part of the brain primarily involved in the processing of emotions and memories associated with fear.
