History of Cognitive Psychology

Question 1

Subjective Inrospection

Answer 1

• (Ps) report moment-to-moment thoughts, sensations, emotions
• Found: info-processing is too fast/automatic to reach conscious awareness

Question 2

Behaviorist Revolution

Answer 2

• Thought processes can’t be studied scientifically.
• studying overt (observable) behavior

Question 3

Cognitive Revolution Events (3)

Answer 3

1. WWII: interest in instruction, attention, vigilance, decision-making for weaponry & attention under stress
2. Computer science and AI: Computers vs. Human and Long term memory (storage unit) vs. working memory (collection of mental processes
3. Linguistics: structure of language & its use. Acquisition.

Question 4

Measuring Thought (Scientific Method)

Answer 4

1. Manipulate one aspect of stimulus input (IV), holding others constant
2. Ask Ps respond to the stimulus
3. Measure overt behavioral response
4. Compare response as a function of the manipulation
5. Conclusion about what’s happening based on output (DV)