Cognitive Approach Definitions

Question 1

Define cognitive approach

Answer 1

Focuses on the role that internal mental processes, such as thoughts, perceptions and attention have on our behaviour

Question 2

Define internal mental processes

Answer 2

These are private, inner operations of the mind, they mediate between a stimulus and response

Question 3

Define schema

Answer 3

A mental representation of our beliefs and expectations that influence our behaviour. We develop these beliefs and expectations from our previous experiences. The role of the schemas is to help us interpret information in the world around us so that we can respond appropriately

Question 4

Define theoretical model

Answer 4

Is a diagrammatic representation of the steps involved in internal mental processes

Question 5

Define information processing approach

Answer 5

Type of theoretical model that illustrates how information flows through the cognitive system in a series of stages. E.g. the multi store model of memory, shows how input, like something we have been told, is first stored in our memory and is then later retrieved

Question 6

Define computer model

Answer 6

Is a software simulation of internal mental processes

Question 7

Define artificial intelligence

Answer 7

Is where computers are programmed to think like humans and mimic their actions. These machines can mimic human abilities such as problem solving

Question 8

Define cognitive neuroscience

Answer 8

This is the scientific study of the influences that brain structures have on mental processes.

Question 9

Define inference

Answer 9

Is where we draw a conclusion about the way information is mentally processed based on observing behaviour

Question 10

Define external validity

Answer 10

Refers to whether the findings we get in the experiment are true in a real world context. It’s concerned with wether the findings from a study can be generalised to different settings and different people

Question 11

Define machine reductionism

Answer 11

The idea that likening the mind to a computer is too simplistic. People who see the mind as similar to a poster ignore important differences between them. For example, unlike computers, humans are also influenced by emotional factors such as anxiety. This means that findings drawn from computer models may not be wholly valid