Cognitive Science Flashcards
Define informational processing theory
cognitive theory of learning that describes the processing, storage and retrieval of knowdlege in the mind
What are executive functions?
management (regulation, control) of cognitive processes, including working memory, reasoning, task flexibility, and problem solving as well as planning and execution
What are sensory registers
also: sensory memory. component of the memory system that receives information and holds it for short periods of time. first stop for information
What is the first stop for information?
sensory memory
How long does sensory memory hold information?
1-3 secs
Define perception
the interpretation of what information we recieved
We are biologically set to pay attention to certain stimuli, such as…
loud noises, contrast, movement
Define attention
active focus on certain stimuli by ignoring other stimuli
Short term memory is also known as
working memory
What does it mean that WM is limited in capacity?
it can hold 5-9 things at a time
what does it mean that WM has limited duration?
Information can be lost with distraction and passage of time. It is fragile.
For how long can working memory (WM) hold information?
5-30 sec
Name 2 components of WM
phonological loop and visuo-spatial sketchpad
Define reherasal
repetition of information to remember it later, to keep it in WM
What is the phonological loop?
phonological loopis one of the central components of the working memory model. It represents a brief store of verbal information.
what is the visuo-spatial sketchpad?
central component of WM. brief storage of what we see
Define retroactive inhibition
when previously learned information is lost because it is mixed up with new information
Define proactive inhibition
when new information cannot be learned because of old information in LTM. the old information interferes with the learning of the new, similar information.
Define proactive facilitation
previously learned information can help new, similar information. Example: knowing Spanish can help learn Italian
What is an example of retroactive facilitation?
When learning something new helps understand better something we already new. Example: knowledge of Latin helps understand English.
Give an example of a semantic memory
The official language of Mexico is Spanish; Charles Chaplin was an actor. (facts)
Give an example of an episodic memory
my 10th birthday party, my wedding (I lived it).
Give an example of a procedural memory
handwriting, riding a bike (knowing how)
People tend to remember the 1st things presented (first items on a list for example). What is this called?
primacy effects
