​Cognitive Processing Vs. Direct Perception

The difference between cognitive processing (internal mental model) and direct perception lies in how information is processed or attuned and used for decision-making in dynamic environments like sports.
 
Cognitive Processing (Internal Mental Model)
 
This approach suggests that the brain constructs an internal representation of the world to guide decision-making. Athletes rely on memory, prediction, & internal computations to process information & anticipate future events.
 
Key Characteristics:

• Requires stored knowledge (schemas, heuristics) to interpret situations
• Involves mental simulations to predict opponent movements
• Often linked to traditional cognitive theories, such as information processing models

 
Direct Perception
 
Rooted in ecological psychology, direct perception suggests that the environment provides all necessary information for action without requiring internal representations. Athletes perceive affordances (opportunities for action) directly from the game environment.
 
Key Characteristics:

• Emphasizes real-time interaction with surroundings
• No need for complex internal models; perception & action are coupled
• Decision-making is emergent, shaped by environmental constraints

 
Key Differences:

Cognitive Processing & Direct Perception Table by theuofstrength