Cognitive Psychology and Memory

Memory is a fundamental aspect of human cognition, influencing our perceptions, decisions, and interactions with the world around us. In this course, we delve into the intricate workings of memory and cognitive processes, exploring how they shape our thoughts, behaviors, and experiences. Through a comprehensive examination of key theories, models, and empirical findings in cognitive psychology, students will gain a deep understanding of memory encoding, storage, retrieval, and the factors influencing memory accuracy.

The course begins by laying the groundwork with an exploration of cognitive psychology, providing an overview of the field and its significance in understanding mental processes. From there, we delve into the intricacies of memory, examining the different types of memory storage, encoding mechanisms, and retrieval strategies. Students will learn about influential models of memory, including the Multi-Store Model and Working Memory Model, and critically analyze their implications for understanding human cognition.

One of the central themes of the course is the impact of cognitive biases and social influences on memory accuracy. Through engaging discussions and case studies, students will explore how factors such as emotion, suggestion, and group dynamics can shape memory recall and eyewitness testimony. Additionally, we examine memory development across the lifespan, from childhood to old age, and discuss the cognitive changes and challenges associated with each stage of life.

A significant portion of the course is dedicated to the intersection of memory and legal proceedings. Students will examine the role of memory in the justice system, including its relevance to eyewitness testimony, memory accuracy, and decision-making in legal contexts. Furthermore, we explore memory disorders and impairments, such as amnesia, Alzheimer’s disease, and traumatic brain injury, and discuss memory rehabilitation techniques aimed at enhancing memory accuracy and effectiveness.

Through a combination of lectures, discussions, readings, and practical exercises, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of memory and cognitive processes, equipping them with valuable insights into human cognition and its real-world applications. Whether pursuing careers in psychology, law, education, or healthcare, this course provides a solid foundation for understanding memory and its role in shaping our lives.