Discuss the use of technology in investigating one cognitive process.

Refer to the paper 1 section B assessment criteria when awarding marks.

The command term “discuss” requires candidates to offer a considered review of the ways in which technology is used in investigating one cognitive process.

Cognitive processes may include, but are not limited to: memory; perception; attention; language; decision-making.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

• The use of PET scans to monitor brain activity during cognitive tasks (Mosconi, 2005).
• The use of MRI scans to observe specific deficits in the brain and how this impacts cognitive processing (Corkin, 1997) or to observe changes in structures related to cognition over time (Maguire’s studies: 2000; 2002; 2011).
• The role of fMRI scans to investigate the interaction of parts of the brain in flashbulb memories (Phelps, 2011; Sharot, 2007).

Discussion may include, but is not limited to:

• how brain imaging technologies have changed the study of cognitive psychology
• differences in why and how different technologies are used
• evaluation of the techniques (for example, cost/benefit analysis, reductionism)
• ethical and methodological considerations in the use of the technology.

It is important that candidates discuss the use of the technology, and not simply evaluate studies. Although an actual understanding of how the technology works may be beneficial, it is not required for top marks to be awarded.

Candidates may discuss one type of technology in order to demonstrate depth of knowledge, or may discuss a number of different technologies in order to demonstrate breadth of knowledge. Both approaches are equally acceptable.

If a candidate discusses the use of technology in investigating more than one cognitive process, credit should be given only to the discussion of the first cognitive process.