Final answer:
Cognitive modules are innate, pre-wired structures in the brain specialized for tasks like language acquisition or spatial navigation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cognitive modules are a concept often affiliated with the work of psychologist Jerry Fodor. They are understood to be innate, pre-wired structures in the brain that provide us with predefined abilities to understand and respond to particular types of environmental stimuli. These cognitive modules are seen as specialized to perform certain tasks, for instance, language acquisition or facial recognition. Fodor's theory contrasts with the view that our cognition is highly flexible and general-purpose. For example, a cognitive module for language would enable a person to rapidly and intuitively grasp the rules and structure of their native language without explicit instruction. This modular approach extends to other areas of cognition, such as our ability to navigate spaces. Edward Tolman's concept of the cognitive map also relates to this idea. A cognitive map allows individuals to navigate through complex environments, such as mazes or video games, using a mental representation of the space. This ability to form cognitive maps could be considered a function of a spatial cognitive module.