Cognitive Approach and Neuroscience

• Assumptions of Cognitive Approach?

  • internal mental processes can be studied scientifically, we just need to make inferences using lab experiments
  • humans are information processors - information is inputted in, our brains process it then there is an output which is the response such as remembering something.
• what are schemas (cognitive approach)

  • mental collections of knowledge about a concept or object built from previously worldly experience
  • work as mental shortcuts, allowing us to navigate and understand the world, interacting with people and objects
• Disadvantages and advantages of schemas? (cognitive approach)

  ADVANTAGE

  • able to engage with the world without being overwhelmed by sensory information
  • allows us to make assumptions about the future from past experience

  DISADVANTAGE

  • leads to inaccurate recall
  • negative schemas can lead to poor mental health as they can bias thinking about yourself, other or the future
• why are theoretical and computer models useful? (cognitive approach)

  • by assuming that the mind operates like a computer inferences can be made based on observable behaviours
• Theoretical and Computer Models (cognitive approach)

  • computer model - compare the mind to computers, saying that both receive inputs (information) and generate outputs (responses)
  • theoretical model - flow chart representation of the steps of a specific mental process
• Evaluative of Cognitive Approach - Strengths

  SCIENTIFIC METHODS

  • uses scientific methods to study cognition
  • allows inferences to be made of internal mental processes - using experimental methods, so data obtained is objective and extraneous variables are minimised.
  • meaning cognitive approach has scientific basis

  REAL WORLD APPLICATION

  • understanding human cognition led to AI development
  • treatments for mental health have been designed to change people's thought process
  • eyewitness testimony improved due to knowledge of memory
  • so cognitive approach has practical value
• Evaluative of Cognitive Approach - Limitations

  COUNTERPOINT TO SCIENTIFIC METHODS

  • if inferences need to be made behaviour isn't studied directly (too theoretical)
  • use of highly artificial tasks (like word lists to measure memory) meaning it lacks mundane realism
  • so studies lack internal validity

  MACHINE REDUCTIONISM

  • computer analogy criticised
  • ignores influence of emotions on behaviour, despite research showing anxiety when witnessing a crime can impact recall
  • this weakens external validity of approach
• • What is cognitive neuroscience?
  • study of cognitive processes and their biological basis in the brain
  • aims to understand how physical brain activity produces thought, emotion and behaviours
  • generally uses neurotypical people in research (people with a typical brain with no disorder or divergence)
• what is used to learn about brain regions and their cognitive influence in cognitive neuroscience?

  • EEG - measuring change in electrical activity in brain
  • PET Scan - radioactive tracer drawn to metabolic activity
  • MRI Scan - shows structure but no activity, very complex
  • fMRI Scan - shows activity - very complex