Information processing systems and applications

¶ … Procsesing Theory

Information Processing

An overview of information processing theory

The theory of information processing was one of the first major new developmental theories to arise during the 20th century. Unlike some other developmental theories, it was heavily influenced by the natural sciences, specifically the development of information technology (IT) and computers (Miller 2002: 276). Within the context of the theory human beings are regarded as 'processing' organisms based upon a kind of technological metaphor for the human brain. The language of information technology is very distinct. "Input -- output' connotes a different sort of thinker than does 'stimulus -- response' or 'assimilation -- accommodation'" (Miller 2002: 272). In the model of information processing, a particular type of information is filtered through the brain via the senses and produces a new type of output based upon the innate structural components of the mind.

Information processing theory could thus be called a kind of 'brain as machine' theory. One model for processing is that of multi-component computer-like structure, beginning with working memory, "a limited capacity workspace that actively keeps information alive temporarily so that this information can be used for thinking and learning" (Miller 2002: 272). An example of working memory in use is asking a friend for the phone number of the local pizzeria, and then immediately dialing the number to order. The central executive functionary of the brain acts as a regulator of working memory, filtering out relevant and irrelevant stimuli (such as when finding someone's house from recorded directions). Other features of the processing are more specialized, such as the visuospatial sketchpad which processes and retains visual and spatial information (such as a map) and the phonological loop which processes and retains speech sounds (such as the sound of someone's voice). "The episodic buffer provides a more general type of memory storage and serves as a temporary interface between the phonological loop and the visuospatial sketchpad, on the one hand, and long-term memory" (Miller 2002: 272-273). The episodic buffer is a kind of 'connector' between these different types of memory. The capacity of the brain for long-term memory is critical given that it includes the ability to remember learned skills and conceptual knowledge such as how to use words (versus the words themselves) and how to add and subtract (versus individual numbers). (Miller 2002: 272-274). Learning a new language requires long-term memory usage. Information processing theorists suggest that knowledge is acquired in a step-by-step fashion, given the differentiation of the brain. We "break down tasks or behavior into their simple components and then posit ways that children learn to integrate these skills into an organized, well-functioning system" (Miller 2002: 277). But the whole of the processing structure is more powerful than the sum of its parts.