Cognitive perspective memory model

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Cognitive Perspective

  1. Describe one model of information processing that helps in the understanding of one aspect of human cognition [10marks]
  2. Using psychological theory and/or research, evaluate the model described in part (a) of this question [10marks]

  1. Describe one model of information processing that helps in the understanding of one aspect of human cognition [10marks]

a)  One model of information processing that helps in the understanding of short-term memory, is the “Working Memory Model,” proposed by Baddeley and Hitch in 1974. This model aims to explain how short-term memory works. Short-term memory is an aspect of human cognition, which is believed to have a short term memory duration, lasting approximately 15 and 30seconds, if it is unrehearsed. Short-term memory is a separate memory store from the long-term memory store. Hence the Working Memory Model focuses on explaining the functions of the short-term memory.

The Working Memory Model consists of 3 major components; the central executive, the phonological loop and the visuo-spatial sketchpad. Firstly, the central executive plays a role in organising and distributing information gathered from the long-term memory. It has a limited capacity, and it connects the various functions from the other two components of this memory model, hence it controls the phonological loop and the visuo-spatial sketchpad.

The phonological loop is another aspect of this model, which consists of two parts. The first is the articulatory control system. It is also commonly known as the “inner voice”. The role of the articulatory control system is to repeatedly rehearse information internally, not verbally. Hence materials are sounded mentally, to oneself. The other component of the phonological loop, is the phonological store. This is also known as the “inner ear”. When information is spoken, it lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 seconds, if it is not refreshed by the articulatory control system. The “inner ear” can also receive information directly through the sensory register (echoic) or the long-term memory.

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Another part of the Working Memory Model, is the visuo-spatial sketchpad. This component is known as the “inner eye”, which is responsible for visual and spatial information. It is a temporary store for visual and spatial information. Once again, like the phonological store, the visuo-spatial sketchpad can receive information directly through the sensory register (iconic) or the long-term memory.

The Episodic Buffer is a small component of the Working Memory Model, which responsible in linking up the phonological loop, visuospatial sketchpad together. The main reason that this component was added was because amnesia patients have good short-term recall of stories. ...

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