VIII. Memory Cognition

2 Sets of Flash Cards: Memory Cognition

Cognition (8-10%)

Cognition is the broad area that encompasses the encoding of sensory inputs, storage, and information retrieval, as well as the subsequent information use in communication and problem-solving situations. Students need to be aware of how human memory functions and its limitations and physical storage, as well as how memory reconstruction occurs. Discuss how the depth of information processing affects later recall, and use simple recall tasks to help students understand the many aspects of memory function, including memory improvement and the importance of context. When you cover problem-solving strategies, such as algorithms and heuristics, ask students to analyze their own problem-solving methods. Examine the common pitfalls that impede good decision making, such as functional fixedness and the availability heuristic. The acquisition of language is an interesting area of study. Have students consider the difference between communication and language. Discuss both language structure and language acquisition, and contrast the research of Noam Chomsky and B. F. Skinner.

Objectives

• Describe sensory memory, short-term memory, and long-term memory

• Distinguish between automatic and effortful processing

• Explain the encoding process (e.g., imagery, chunking, hierarchies)

• Differentiate between implicit and explicit memory

• Describe the impact of retrieval cues on memory

• Discuss the effects of interference and motivated forgetting on retrieval

• Describe Loftus’s research on memory reconstruction

• Identify mnemonic devices (e.g., acronyms, method of loci, peg-word, narrative chaining)

Myers Power Point

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