Regardless of which prompt you choose, please use the Tag “Memory” on your post:

Option 1:

Elizabeth Loftus is one of the preeminent researchers in false memories. Her research has shed light on the fallibility of eyewitness testimony, the over-reporting of satanic ritual abuse, and the ease of implanting false memories. Her TED talk outlines much of her research and illuminates the fragility of our memory. Watch the TED talk and discuss your reactions. Make sure to specifically address Loftus’s implication that we could manipulate memory for positive outcomes (like enjoying vegetables) by discussing potential pros and cons and stating whether or not you believe we should consider tampering with memory.

Option 2:

Now that we have discussed memory, evaluate your study habits. Describe how you studied for the first exam in this class and explain what you could do differently for the second exam to improve your preparation. Also explain why these differences would be better than what you did before. You also need to find a website that provides advice about studying and critique the recommendations based on what we discussed in class and what you read in your textbook.

Option 3:

You’ve probably heard our expectations have a powerful effect on our experiences, but just what kinds of effects are we talking about? What if our stereotypes of aging influenced how our memories decline as we get older? This research study makes that very claim, based on comparisons of groups with different attitudes toward the elderly. Read the article, summarize it’s main points for your readers, discuss the implications of this research, and comment on how trustworthy you find the research.

I look forward to seeing what you write!

Header image: CC by Flickr user Caitlinator