PY3LDM-Brain Mechanisms of Learning and Decision Making

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

Module Convenor: Prof Anastasia Christakou
Email: a.christakou@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:
PY3LDM Learning and Decision-making

Aims:

The module aims to: enable students to study the brain mechanisms involved in learning and decision making in depth; provide an opportunity to critically evaluate selected topics related to these areas; enhance students' awareness of current research being undertaken in the department; and help students develop the ability to study independently. 

Assessable learning outcomes:
At the end of the module students will be able to:
1.Apply their understanding of key neural mechanisms involved in learning and decision-making
2. Critically evaluate experimental efforts to bridge psychological and neural perspectives on decision-making

Additional outcomes:
Students will be able to participate in critical discussions of theory and experimental practice, including the design of experiments and the evaluation of methods and techniques.

Outline content:
This module comprises seven 2-hour seminars.

The module will focus on different forms of learning and reward-driven decision-making. We will examine empirical and theoretical approaches to how we learn about our environment and how we adapt our behaviour. Pathological conditions will be discussed, such as drug addiction and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which are characterised by atypical responsivity to reward and maladaptive processing of action outcomes. The mo dule will include both human and animal research, with a strong focus on neuroscience and brain physiology.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Seminars involve lectures and interactive discussions.

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 2000-word report

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:
A mark of 40% overall

Reassessment arrangements:
Reassessment is by re-examination in August/September

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books: None

2) Specialist equipment or materials: None

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: None

4) Printing and binding: None

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification: None

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence: None

Last updated: 6 July 2021