cognitive approach

cognitive approach

1. assumptions

   • internal mental processes
     • neglected by the behaviourist approach
       • memory
       • perception
       • thinking
     • private

2. theoretical & computer models

   • theoretical
     • information processing approach
       • information flows through the cognitive system in stages
       • including - input, storage, retrieval (multi storage system)
   • computer models
     • similar to the way information is processed
     • central processing unit (brain)
     • coding (information to a useable format)
     • store (to hold information)

3. schema

   • packages of ideas
   • developed through experience
   • mental framework that influence cognitive processing
   • you have a schema for everything
   • mental short cuts - prevent from being overwhelmed by environmental stimuli
     • however can distort interpretations
       • misheard song lyrics

4. evaluation

   • scientific & objective methods
     • high control and rigorous methods
     • lab experiments = high control
     • produces reliable, objective data
     • scientifically credible
   • machine reductionism
     • are some similarities with a computer
     • however it ignores the influence of emotion and motivation
     • this may affect the ability to process info
     • e.g. anxiety on eyewitnesses
   • everyday life
     • too abstract in nature
     • artificial stimuli (learning a list of words
     • lacks external validty

5. evaluation +

   • real life
     • most used and can be applied the most
     • artificial intelligence
       • revolutionise how we live
     • thinking robots
   • less determinist
     • soft determinism
       • can only operate within the limits we know
       • but we are free to think before responding