chap 9-11

Chapter 9 - Cognitive Development: Information-Processing Perspectives and Connectionism

Information-Processing Theories

  • Definition: Draw analogies between computer operations and human mind functions.

  • Mind’s Hardware:

    • Hardware refers to the brain, sensory receptors, and their neural connections (Answer: a).

  • Mind’s Software:

    • Software refers to the rules and strategies specifying how information is registered, interpreted, stored, retrieved, and analyzed (Answer: c).

Key Concepts in Memory Systems

  • Mental Software: Marcos uses a new strategy in backgammon, implying he has increased his mental software (Answer: b).

  • Memory Systems:

    • Sensory Register: Maintains information in a pure form (Answer: a).

    • Short-Term Store: Typical capacity is between 5 and 9 items (Answer: b).

    • Long-Term Store: Maintains information for extended periods (Answer: b).

  • Working Memory: Also known as short-term store (Answer: c).

Memory Span and Capacity

  • Memory Span: Refers to the number of rapidly presented, unrelated items recalled in exact order (Answer: a).

  • Age-Related Improvements: Reliable improvements in memory span and rehearsal tasks noted (Answer: d).

Age-Related Differences

  • Chi's Finding: Young children outperform older individuals with specific knowledge—this relates to how knowledge base influences memory tasks (Answer: a).

  • Span of Apprehension: The number of items that can be kept in mind when working (Answer: a).

Maturational Changes in Processing Speed

  • Source of Improvement: Myelinization of the cortical association areas (Answer: a).

  • Information Processing: Improved speed and efficiency accounts for improved memory with age (Answer: c).

Learning Deficiencies and Strategies

  • Production Deficiency: Teach more effective problem-solving strategies (Answer: c).

  • Common Learning Deficiencies:

    • Lack of strategy utilization (Answer: a).

    • Failure to implement known strategies (Answer: b).

Memory Strategies

  • Use of Strategies: Younger children use fewer strategies, and this affects effectiveness (Answer: c).

  • Strategic Deficiency: Not utilizing effective strategies when available (Answer: a).

  • Schematic Deficiency: Failing to benefit from effective strategies one generate spontaneously (Answer: b).

  • Memory Strategies:

    • Semantic Organization: Organizing concepts meaningfully (Answer: b).

    • Elaboration: Creating meaningful links (Answer: b).

Distinction in Strategy Use

  • Younger vs. Older Children: Younger children are less efficient in strategy use (Answer: c).

Metacognition and Memory

  • Metacognition: Knowledge of one’s cognitive abilities related to thinking (Answer: d).

  • Emergence of Metamemory: Evident during preschool years (Answer: b).

  • Reinforcement of Memory Strategies: Important for helping children recall (evidence shown).

Attention and Memory

  • Sustained Attention: 6-year-olds show more sustained attention compared to younger children due to maturation (Answer: c).

  • Visual Search Performance: Systematic searches develop with age (Answer: c).

Effects of Age and Environment on Memory Performance

  • Developmental Changes: Memory skills evolve, requiring correction and reinforcement (Answer: a).

  • Influence on Performance: Conditions, environments, and sensory experience shape cognitive abilities.

Summary of Findings

  • Children miss details; older children filter irrelevant details with improved strategies.

  • Interaction and feedback shape memory strategies and problem-solving capabilities.