PY2CNS-Cognition and Neuroscience

Module Provider: Psychology
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:5
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring / Summer module
Pre-requisites: PY1BP BioPsychology and PY1PR Psychological Research or PY1IN Introduction to Neuroscience
Non-modular pre-requisites: For Single Hons and Joint Hons Psychology students only
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded: PY2CN Cognition or PY2CN1 Cognition 1 or PY2NS2 Neuroscience 2 or PY2PNS Perception and Neuroscience
Current from: 2020/1

Module Convenor: Prof Philip Beaman

Email: c.p.beaman@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:
PY2CNS Cognition & Neuroscience

Aims:

The student should gain an understanding of theory and research into human memory and cognition including the different forms of memory (e.g., working memory, long-term memory, episodic, semantic, procedural and prospective memory) from a normal adult perspective. Students will also be introduced to cognitive neuropsychology and the consequences of brain abnormalities, including neurodegenerative diseases (e.g. Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, dementia). Neuroscience methods such as brain imaging, neural mechanisms etc. will be discussed with reference to recent research.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module, students will be able to:

1. Critically analyse behavioural and neuropsychological studies of human cognition 

2. Understand the range of different memory phenomena, including the proposed subdivision of human memory into different memory sub-systems.

3. Show knowledge of neuropsychological studies of neural and cognitive function, as assessed by multiple-choice questions, coursework assignments and written exams. 
< br /> 4. Appreciate the neural basis of cognitive processes, such as attention and working memory

4. Understand the nature and consequences of impaired cognition (e.g., because of a closed-head injury). 

5. Show an appreciation of the requirements and challenges of neurorehabilitation. 

Additional outcomes:
Students will be able to apply general knowledge of research methods to the topics covered within this module in order to critically evaluate the results of both behavioural and neuropsychological studies. Students will acquire an appreciation of the requirements and challenges of neurorehabilitation.

Outline content:

(a) The information-processing approach to understanding human memory and cognition, conducted by means of experimental studies and behavioural data. (b) The results of such research, including the proposed subdivision of human memory into different memory sub-systems. (c) The neural basis of cognitive processes, such as attention and working memory. (d) An understanding of human cognitive and brain function in terms of breakdown within cognitive and neural systems.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
a) Lectures on behavioral studies of human memory and neuropsychological studies of cognition and memory, supported by Blackboard VLE discussion board and recommended readings on neuropsychology and memory.

(b) Seminars providing the opportunity to discuss lectures and recommended reading, prepare and deliver oral presentations with feedback, and research and write essays.

(c) Continuous assessment exercises tied to course content.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	16	16	2
Seminars	2	2
Guided independent study:	62	62	38
Total hours by term	80	80	40
Total hours for module	200

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written exam	50
Written assignment including essay	30
Set exercise	20

Summative assessment- Examinations:

This module is assessed by a combination of coursework (50%), and examination (50%). The 1 ½ hour Summer Exam will require you to answer 2 questions on topics covered in the module: one on Autumn Term topics, one on Spring Term topics.

 

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Coursework includes 1 essay, prepared for your seminar tutor (30%) and continuous online assessment of your understanding of the material covered in lectures (20%). 

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:

The Module Convenor will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day[1] (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: http://www.reading.ac.uk/web/FILES/qualitysupport/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A mark of 40% overall

Reassessment arrangements:
Reassessment of this module is by examination in August/September

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books:
2) Specialist equipment or materials:
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding:
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 4 April 2020