Eyewitness Testimony

    OCR
    GCSE

    Eyewitness Testimony (EWT) examines the reliability of memory within legal contexts, grounded in the cognitive approach. Candidates must evaluate the malleability of memory, specifically how misleading information (leading questions, post-event discussion) and anxiety levels influence recall accuracy. The study area necessitates a critical comparison between laboratory-based research (Loftus) and field studies (Yuille & Cutshall) to determine ecological validity. Mastery requires understanding the transition from the 'video recorder' model of memory to the 'reconstructive' model and applying this to the Cognitive Interview technique used to enhance police practices.

    5
    Objectives
    4
    Exam Tips
    3
    Pitfalls
    3
    Key Terms
    4
    Mark Points

    Learning Objectives

    What you need to know and understand

    • Bartlett's Theory of Reconstructive Memory (1932)
    • Concept of Schemas (mental frameworks)
    • Braun et al. (2002) study on autobiographical memory
    • War of the Ghosts study results (shortening, rationalisation)
    • Distinction between episodic and semantic memory

    Example Examiner Feedback

    Real feedback patterns examiners use when marking

    • "You defined schemas correctly, but you didn't explain how they caused the specific error in the scenario."
    • "Avoid describing the Multi-Store Model here; the question specifically asks about Reconstructive Memory."
    • "Your evaluation of Bartlett is good, but you need to counter-argue with the lack of control in his methodology."
    • "Link the findings of Braun et al. directly to the reliability of the witness testimony in the question."

    Marking Points

    Key points examiners look for in your answers

    • Award AO1 marks for precise definition of Reconstructive Memory as an active process, not a recording.
    • Credit AO2 for applying the concept of 'schemas' to explain specific errors in a witness's account (e.g., rationalisation of unfamiliar details).
    • Candidates must cite Braun et al. (2002) or Bartlett (1932) to support arguments regarding memory accuracy.
    • Evaluation (AO3) must assess the ecological validity of the supporting research (e.g., War of the Ghosts being artificial).

    Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for maximising your marks

    • 💡When explaining EWT errors, explicitly use terms like 'omission', 'transformation', and 'rationalisation'.
    • 💡Distinguish clearly between the theory (Reconstructive Memory) and the study (War of the Ghosts).
    • 💡In 9-mark evaluation questions, ensure you critique the theory/study, not just describe it.
    • 💡Use the scenario provided to exemplify how a witness's cultural background (schema) might distort their recall.

    Common Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exam answers

    • Confusing Reconstructive Memory (active reconstruction) with the Multi-Store Model (linear processing).
    • Citing Loftus & Palmer (AQA specification) instead of the required OCR core studies (Bartlett or Braun et al.).
    • Describing 'schemas' generically without linking them to the specific distortions in the exam scenario.

    Study Guide Available

    Comprehensive revision notes & examples

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    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    Likely Command Words

    How questions on this topic are typically asked

    Identify
    Describe
    Explain
    Calculate
    Evaluate
    Discuss

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