Learn: Cognitive Approach Assumptions

Welcome!Today we'll explore the Cognitive Approach and its key assumptions. This topic is fascinating because it helps us understand how we process information and how our minds work like computers. Let's dive in!

What is the Cognitive Approach?The Cognitive Approach focuses on how humans think, process information, and store it. It compares the human mind to a computer, where information is input, processed, and output. This helps explain behaviours like memory, decision-making, and problem-solving.

Key Assumption: Information ProcessingThe first assumption is that behaviour results from information processing. Just like computers, we take in information (input), work on it (processing), and act or respond (output). For example, recognising a friend's face involves input (seeing), processing (matching to memory), and output (smiling).

Key Assumption: Computer AnalogyThe computer analogy is another key assumption. It suggests the human brain works like a computer, with similar processes like encoding (storing information), capacity (how much we can store), and retrieval (bringing information back). This analogy helps psychologists understand memory, learning, and problem-solving.

Memory StoresMemory is a key concept in the Cognitive Approach. There are three memory stores: sensory memory (briefly holds sensory information), short-term memory (holds information for a short time), and long-term memory (stores information indefinitely). These stores differ in encoding (how information is stored), capacity (how much can be stored), and duration (how long information lasts).

Reconstructive MemoryThe Cognitive Approach highlights reconstructive memory, which shows memory isn't perfect. Instead, we use schemas (mental frameworks) to rebuild memories. This can lead to changes like shortening (leaving out details), rationalisation (making sense of information), and confabulation (adding details).

Review Time!Great work! You've learned about the Cognitive Approach assumptions, memory stores, and reconstructive memory. Now let's test your understanding with a few more questions.