The cognitive approach Flashcards
(7 cards)
What are the assumptions of the cognitive approach.
The cognitive approach believes that internal mental processes can, and should, be studied scientifically. As a result, it has investigated those areas of human behaviour that were neglected by behaviourists, such as memory, perception and thinking. These processes are private and cannot be observed, so cognitive psychologists study them indirectly by making inferences about what is going on inside people’s minds on the basis of their behaviour.
Explain two ways we can study internal processes.
Theoretical models can be used. One important theoretical model is the information processing approach, which suggests that information flows through the cognitive system in a sequence of stages that includes: input-storage and retrieval, as in the multi-store model.
Another way is using computer models, where the mind is compared to a computer by suggesting similarities in the way information is processed. These models use the concepts of a central processing unit, the concept of coding and the use of ‘sores’ to holding information.
Define schema and explain the role of schema.
Schemas are a mental framework of beliefs and expectations that influence cognitive processing. They are developed from experience.
Babies are born with simple motor schema from innate behaviour. As we get older our schema becomes more detailed and sophisticated. Schema enables us to process lots of information quickly and this is useful as a sort if mental short cut that prevents us from being overwhelmed by environmental stimuli.
Define and explain cognitive neuroscience.
Cognitive neuroscience is the scientific study of biological structures that underpin cognitive processes.
Advanced technology such as brain imaging techniques eg, fMRI and PET scans have allowed scientists to systematically observe and describe the neurological basis of mental processes.
Define inference.
The process whereby cognitive psychologists draw conclusions about the way mental processes operate on the basis of observed behaviour.
Explain the strengths of the cognitive approach.
1) The cognitive approach has always employed highly controlled and rigorous methods of study in order for researchers to infer cognitive processes at work. This has involved in using lab experiments to produce reliable, objective data.
2) It can be applied to a wide range of practical and theoretical contexts. For example, cognitive psychologists have made important contributions in the field of artificial intelligence (AI).
Explain the weaknesses of the cognitive approach.
1) Although there are similarities in the way the human mind and the operations of a computer operate, this has been criticised. Such machine reductionism ignores the influences of human emotion and motivation on the cognitive system.
2) Experimental studies of mental processes are often carried out using artificial stimuli (eg, memory tests) that may not represent everyday memory experience. Therefore it lacks external validity.
