Cognitive Approach Overview

Cognitive Approach Overview

1. The study of internal mental processes

   • Cognitive primacy
   • Only uses people and scientific experimentation
   • Cannot be directly observed- inferences made

2. Theoretical and computer models to explain mental processes

   • The information processing approach
     • We approach info in linear, systematic way
       • Eg. Stimulus--> STM---> LTM---> Retrieval etc
   • The computer analogy
     • Sees human minds similiar to computers
       • "Central processing unit" and use of "coding"

3. The role of schema

   • Mental/cognitive structure which contains knowledge about an object/person/activity
   • Developed by Jean Piaget
   • Bartlett (1932)- big role in how memories encoded. Used to simplify the world, however creates stereotypes

4. The emergence of cognitive neuroscience

   • Searches for neuroanatomical, chemical and/or mechanisms responsible for cognitive processes
   • Looks for physical basis of cognitive processes