Model-based reasoning in cognitive science

This paper addresses the different models and their functions in cognitive science. First, this paper discusses the various uses and meanings of various models in science and two kinds of functions of each model such as idealizations and representations of the real world. In cognitive science, cognitive architectures were used as cognitive models. Second, this paper discusses Neil Stillings' global cognitive architecture as well as an example. In addition, this paper focuses on several forms of cognitive models including the von Neumann model, symbol system model and production system model. Further, it was argued that the connectionist model was a better approach to understanding the mechanisms of human cognition through the use of simulated networks of simple, neuron-like processing units. Finally, four models in neuroscience were addressed, being: different models of sensory processing, Marshall-Newcombe's symbolic model of reading, model of memory system, and Mishkin-Appenzeller's model of visual memory functions. These models are approaches to physical implementation, not a computational approach to cognition.