The cognitive approach

what is the cognitive approach ?

the cognitive approach involves the study of internal mental processes

• Memory

• Thinking

• Attention

• Perception

• These are internal because psychologists know they are happening but they cannot be directly observed in the same way as biological processes

• To investigate IMP researchers must conduct research and make inference in there findings

what do cognitive psychologists do to understand humans?

• They use theoretical and computer models to understand IMP

• Models are used to provide testable theories about mental processes

• Cognitive psychologists use scientific methodology to investigate IMP

How are models used?

• They work in a similar way to flow charts used in computer programming

• One example is the multi store model of memory

• Humans are seen as information processors who process information similar to that of a computer

• Information moves through the computer Odell in a sequence of stages. Input, storage/processing ,output

evaluation for the use of models- strengths

• good application. It has contributed significantly to the development of AI due to the use of theoretical and computer models. Highlights the usefulness of the theory

• Degree of flexibility. An example of oft determinism this means the cognitive approach doesn’t take a completely rigid view of human behaviour it acknowledges free will

Evaluation of models- weaknesses

• machine reductionism. It’s overly contrived. Human cognition is often unpredictable and emotional and computers aren’t designed in the same way meaning it only has limited application to cognition

• Can only be inferred. The cognitive approach is overly abstract and detached from reality. So lacks external validity

What is the role of a schema

• Schemas are shortcuts which facilitate the processing of information and stop the mind from being overwhelmed by environmental stimulation

• They allow people to predict what may happen and are based on previous experience

• They act as a mental framework for the interpretation of incoming information

• They are unique to the individual but many will be shared

• As we get older they become more complex

Evaluation for schemas - strengths

Evaluation for schemas - weaknesses

• It’s difficult to define exactly what a schema is

• It’s a mental framework which has no clear parameters and will differ from person to person. If there is no clear consensus as to what a schema actually is then the theory lacks usefulness