COGNITIVE PSYCHOLOGY ESSAY

Cognitive Psychology Essay

Cognitive Psychology Essay

Introduction

The physiological signals of the brain begin from the retina and should travel to the visual cortex in order for perception to occur. The retina is made up of several neuron layers that lead to the optic nerve. This nerve travels to the LGN (lateral geniculate nucleus) from the retina. These neurons travel to a part of the back of the brain called the visual cortex where the image in analysed (Merigan & Maunsell, 1993, p. 369-402).

The retina is divided into two parts, the right and the left, the image formed by the left side of the retina is portrayed in the brain and the image formed by the right side of the retina is portrayed in the right side of the brain. This is in contrast to the function of the brain in which the right side of the body is controlled by the left side of the brain and the left side of the body is controlled by the right side of the brain. Therefore, this relation is difficult to make sense.

The methods by which objects are recognised are different for each of the different pathways. EEG examinations are applied since they give a clearer picture of the issues related to the processing abilities. This method can also pin-point even the smallest variations in the time taken for the image to reach the brain through the different pathways. In order to do this, the different pathways should be separated from each other. This isolation can help measure the efficiency of each pathway. The detection of the Event Related Potentials (ERPs) that are the increased negativity and positivity of the brain signals is possible with the help of EEG (Neisser, 1967, p.124-126).

The reaction times and the quality of the images help to determine the differences between the three pathways. The recording and analysis of these signals is essential in order to determine the ways by which things are viewed and perceived (Thorndyke, 1977, p.77-110).

Empirical Research Model

Empirical research model is a means by which knowledge is gained with the help of indirect and direct experiences or observations. They can be quantitatively or qualitatively analysed in order to reach a conclusion. The use of quantifiable research is far better than qualitative research as it not only provides a detailed account of the experiences of the person; it also provides answers to the questions that are in qualitative form. These can be measured accurately if the method of data collection is linked directly to the research question and the desired outcomes of the research (Gross, 1998, p.224-237).

In this model, the researcher attempts to define the factors that influence the interaction of the human senses and the environment. The application of this instrument enables the research to calibrate the observation by documenting the results and applying known theories and observations. This accumulation of evidence against or for a theory requires the collection of empirical data and a well planned research design (Ajzen & Fishbein, 1977, ...