How many different ways can you upgrade a computer?

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• How many different ways can you upgrade a
  computer?
• If you could upgrade a mind, what might you
  improve?

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Todays session
You are learning about... You are learning to...
Information processing approaches to cognitive development Analyse research findings using alternative points of view Use research to evaluate theories
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Information processing
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Information processing

• Cognitive development is seen as a process by
  which children become capable of processing
  information in more complex ways
• Development of working memory, attention
• More skilled/efficient use of processes
• Acquisition of better strategies

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Information processing

• Can you remember learning to multiply numbers?
• How is this skill different for you now?

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Information processing

• Automation of processing allows processing
  capacity to be freed up so more complex tasks
  can be undertaken

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Case (1974)

• Cognitive development involves changes in
• Number of schemes available
• Like Piagets schemas
• Figurative, operative executive
• Acquired through modification, combination
  consolidation
• M-power (mental capacity)
• Importance attached to perceptual and other cues

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IP versus Piaget

• Piaget

• Information processing

• Thinking ability is domain independent
• Ability to solve problems depends on a grasp of
  their underlying logic
• Children work out an accurate understanding of
  how the world really is
• Development proceeds at its own pace

• Thinking ability is domain specific
• Ability to solve problems depends on cognitive
  load, strategies experience
• Children acquire rules that are good enough for
  common problems
• Development can be accelerated with teaching

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IP versus Piaget

• How does Piaget explain adult performance on the
  pendulum problem how would the IP approach
  explain it?
• Which account do you find more convincing?