the cognitive approach

Question 1

assumptions

Answer 1

internal mental processes can be studied through inference

Question 2

schema

Answer 2

a mental framework of beliefs and expectations that influence cognitive processing
developed from experience

Question 3

the role of schema

Answer 3

beliefs and expectations affect thoughts and behaviour
schemas can be both innate and learned
schemas enable us to process lots of information at once without being overwhelmed

Question 4

theoretical and computer models

Answer 4

• the mind is compared to a computer in the way that it processes information
• models use the concept of a central processing unit (the brain), the concept of coding (turning information into a useable format) and storing information
• such computational models of the mind have proved useful in the development of AI

Question 5

the emergence of cognitive neuroscience

Answer 5

• using fMRI and PET scanes, scientists have been able to scientifically observe and describe the neurological basis of mental processes

Question 6

evaluation: uses scientific and objective methods

Answer 6

• cognitive approach has always employed highly controlled methods of study
• often uses lab experiments to produce reliable and objective data
• study of the mind has established a credible scientific basis

Question 7

evaluation: machine reductionism

Answer 7

• comparison of computers and the brain has been criticised by many
• machine reductionism ignores the influence of human emotions and motivation in the cognitive system and how this may affect our ability to process information

Question 8

evaluation: cannot apply to everyday life

Answer 8

• cognitive psychologists are only able to infer mental processes from the behaviour they observe in their research
• as a consequence, cognitive psychology often suffers from being too abstract and theoretical in nature