Key Idea: The cognitive approach explains behaviour through mental processes — schemas, models and the biases that come from mental shortcuts.
Topic 2.2 at a glance
- Schemas & models — Schema theory + cognitive models (e.g. multi-store memory) make thinking testable.
- Dual processing & biases — Fast System 1 vs slow System 2; confirmation & anchoring biases.
- Learning — Classical and operant conditioning; cognitive load theory.
Memory · Thinking · Learning
IB-style questionExplain[6 marks]
Explain how a cognitive process such as schema or memory can lead to biased thinking.
Model answer plan
See the mark-by-mark plan — for / against / judgement, with marking guidance — in study mode.
What is a schema? A mental framework of expectations that shapes (and biases) memory.
System 1 vs System 2? Fast automatic vs slow effortful — most biases come from System 1.
Operant conditioning? Learning from consequences — reinforcement increases, punishment decreases.
Cognitive terms usually link to the concept of bias or measurement — name the mechanism, a worked example, and one limitation.