(2) Unit 1 - Cognitive Assumption Two - Computer Analogy

What would some cognitive psychologists suggest?

That the human mind works in a similar way to a computer.

How are our brains similar to computers in terms of input?

Computers receive input, e.g. from a keyboard. Similarly, our senses work as an input. Our senses include visual, auditory, olfactory, tactile and gustatory senses.

How are our brains similar to a computer in terms of processing?

Information inputted through a keyboard is processed through display and storage. Similarly, our sensory information is stored. Our processes are our internal mental processes (e.g. memory, language, attention, problem-solving and perception).

How are our brains similar to a computer in terms of output?

Computers can recall a document previously saved. Similarly, our brains can retrieve information when needed. Our output is our behaviour.

What research reinforces the idea that the human mind works in a similar way to a computer?

Atkinson and Shiffrin’s (1968) ‘multi-store model of memory’.

What does the multi-store of memory suggest about our memory?

That we have a linear model of memory, proposing that we have three distinct memory stores that have different characteristics: the sensory memory, the short-term memory and the long-term memory.

What is memory?

Information that comes from the environment to our senses.

How long is information stored in our sensory memory?

For less than one second.

What happens if information is paid attention to?

It flows into the short-term memory that has a duration of up to 20 seconds.

What happens if information is rehearsed?

It is encoded in the long-term memory that has an unlimited duration.

What happens when we need to access information?

Information can be retrieved from the long-term memory and brought back into the short-term memory. Information can be recalled from the short-term memory and brought into the conscious mind.

How much information can the rehearsal loop store?

Up to 9 items of information. The more often information is looped through the short-term memory, the more securely it is rehearsed.