Digital technology (influence)

Digital technologies - consist of electronic devices and systems that generate, process and store data. DTs include social media, online gaming and mobile devices.

Memory is the process of encoding, retrieving and storing of information.

Thinking is the process of using knowledge and information to make plans, interpret the world, and make predictions about the world in generations.

Decision making is the process of identifying and choosing alternatives based on the values and preferences of decision maker.

Possible Question Formats (for Chou & Edge)

  • Evaluate research on the influence of digital technology on cognitive processing

  • To what extent is technology having a positive effect on one or more cognitive processes?

  • Discuss one or more negative effects of technology on cognitive processes

  • Discuss research on the influence of digital technology on the reliability of cognitive processing

  • To what extent is technology having a positive effect on the reliability of cognitive processes?

  • Discuss one or more negative effects of technology on the reliability of cognitive processes.

Question Tips

  • If they ask for one or more cognitive processes - stick to memory - (Henkel, Blacker, Sparrow)

  • If they ask for cognitive processes you HAVE TO mention two different processes - i.e. memory AND thinking & decision making - (Chou & Edge, Blacker, Sparrow)

  • If they ask for specifically positive, or specifically negative, you must choose the correct studies

Chou and Edge (2012):

Aim: to test the influence of the availability heuristic on how facebook users evaluate themselves in comparison to other people.

Procedure:

  • Opportunity sample 425 US undergrad students

  • Participants completed a survey including a 10 point Liberty scale allowing them