PY3FPR-Face Perception and Recognition

Module Provider: Psychology
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:6
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Summer term module
Pre-requisites: PY2CN2 Cognition 2 or PY2RM Research Methods and Data Analysis or PY2CN1 Cognition 1
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Dr Katie Gray
Email: k.l.h.gray@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:
Face Perception and Recognition

Aims:
This module will provide students with an opportunity to develop an understanding of the cognitive mechanisms that allow us to perceive and recognise other people. Students will be exposed to a number of contemporary debates, where they will encounter opposing evidence-based arguments. Students will be encouraged to think critically about evidence, evaluate the strength of different arguments and develop their own opinions.

Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module students will be able to:
1.Critically evaluate research approaches and theoretical perspectives of identity and emotional expression face processing
2. Apply this understanding to critically discuss whether faces are special

Additional outcomes:
Students will develop critical thinking and analysis skills through researching and evaluating relevant literature. Students will also develop their ability to communicate arguments clearly by participating in evaluative discussions of research and theory in large and small groups.

Outline content:
The module comprises seven 2-hour seminars.
Humans are generally incredibly adept at recognising someone from their face. Not only are faces helpful for recognising identity, they also convey additional important social information. We will explore how individuals perceive and recognise identity, emotion, gender, and trait judgements (like trustworthiness) from faces. We will also discuss atypical face processing skills in prosopagnosia, or £face blindness£. We will consider the leading th eoretical models of face processing, and discuss current controversies. Seminars will include lectures, interactive discussions, and group tasks. Lectures are intended to provide a basic introduction to each topic and should be supplemented with independent reading of the literature. This course aims to encourage student participation and active learning.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
The course will include a variety of teaching and learning methods. Seminars will include lectures, interactive discussions, group tasks and student presentations. Lectures are intended to provide a basic introduction to each topic and should be supplemented with independent reading of the literature.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Seminars	14		1
Guided independent study:	85
Total hours by term	99		1
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written exam	75
Written assignment including essay	25

Summative assessment- Examinations:

This module is assessed through coursework (25%) and a final exam (75%).

The 1.5-hour Summer Exam will require students to answer 1 essay question on topics covered in the module.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Coursework will comprise a poster presentation.

Formative assessment methods:
Students have the opportunity to provide the module convenor with up to two essay plans for comment and feedback in preparation for the exam.

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres 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 (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:
The module must be passed by an aggregate score of 40%.

Reassessment arrangements:
Re-assessment is by re-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: 8 April 2021