C4 - Cogntive approach

Question 1

Key features

Answer 1

• Scientific study of mental processes (contrast to behaviourism)
• Study mental processes using inference

Question 2

Schema

Answer 2

• Packages of information developed through experience
• Mental framework for interpretation of incoming information
• Babies born with simple motor schema for innate behaviours
• Schema becomes more detailed as we get older

Question 3

Theoretical & computer models to explain mental processes

Answer 3

Theoretical models:
- Information processing approach, info flows through stages including input, storage & retrieval

Computer models:
- Program run on computer to imitate human mind (e.g. conversational machines)
- Tests ideas about information processing

Question 4

Emergence of cognitive neuroscience

Answer 4

• Scientific study of the influence of brain structures
• Describes neurological basis of mental processing
• Research in memory linking episodic & semantic memories to opposite sides of prefrontal cortex
• Scanning techniques useful to establish neurological basis of some disorders

Question 5

Evaluations of the cognitive approach (SSL)

Answer 5

S - Scientific & objective methods
S - Application to everyday life
L - Based on machine reductionism

Question 6

Evaluations of the cognitive approach - Scientific & objective methods (S)

Answer 6

• Controlled & rigorous methods of study e.g. lab, to infer cognitive processes
• Biology & cognitive psychology come together (cognitive neuroscience) to enhance scientific basis
• Study of the mind has a credible, scientific basis

Question 7

Evaluations of the cognitive approach - Application to everyday life (S)

Answer 7

• Cognitive approach is dominant & has been applied to many practical & theoretical contexts
• E.g. AI & robot development, treatment of depression & improving EWT
• Supports value of cognitive approach

Question 8

Evaluations of the cognitive approach - Based on machine reductionism (L)

Answer 8

• Although there are similarities between operations of mind & computers, computer analogy criticised
• Emotion & motivation influence accuracy of recall (e.g. EWT). These aren’t considered in computer analogy
• Machine reductionism weakens validity of approach