The Cognitive Approach

Question 1

What are the main assumptions of The Cognitive Approach?

Answer 1

Internal mental processes should be studied scientifically. The private processes inside the mind are investigated which include memory, perception, and thinking. Since private processes cannot be observed psychologists study them indirectly by making inferences about what is going inside someone’s mind.

Question 2

What is a Schema?

Answer 2

A ‘package’ of beliefs and expectations on a topic that came from prior experiences.
The knowledge is organized into concepts.They act as mental framework for the interpretation of incoming information.

Question 3

What is an example of a Schema?

Answer 3

For example, you have a schema for dinosaurs- a large lizard creature with sharp teeth.As we get older our schema becomes more detailed and developed.
Babies born with a simple motor schema for innate behaviours - grabbing objects and putting it into their mouths.

Question 4

Define Assimilation

Answer 4

New learning experience

Question 5

Define Accommodation

Answer 5

Changes in current knowledge/schema

Question 6

How can we study internal processes of the mind

Answer 6

With theoretical models

Question 7

Define ‘Input’ in the Information Processing Model

Answer 7

Input from the environment via the senses

Question 8

Define ‘Processing’ in the Information Processing Model

Answer 8

Information is encoded and processed e.g Schema

Question 9

Define ‘Output’ in the Information Processing Model

Answer 9

The Observable behaviour

Question 10

What are the Strengths of the Cognitive Approach

Answer 10

• Approach employs scientific method with experiments
• Evaluates evidence
• Opposes introspection, claims to be misleading
• Explains how we form impressions of others
• Empirical evidence

Question 11

What are the Weaknesses of the Cognitive Approach

Answer 11

• Computer modelling doesn’t account for forgetfulness
• Incorrect use of terms such as “coding”
• Ignores emotion and motivation