PY3SNC-Sensory Perception in Neurodevelopmental Conditions

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

Module Convenor: Dr Teresa Tavassoli
Email: t.tavassoli@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

It is crucial to react to the sensory world around us in an adaptive way. However, for some individuals, e.g. children with neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism, sensory stimuli such as sounds and touch, can be overwhelming. This module will first introduce students to the concept of sensory reactivity.  Further we will explore sensory reactivity differences such as hyperreactivity to sounds or touch, hyporeactivity and sensory seeking behaviours across neurodevelopmental conditions, such as autism, ADHD and OCD. Students will also be introduced to ways of measuring sensory reactivity and we will explore underlying mechanisms. Last, the impact of sensory reactivity symptoms on daily life and ways to improve symptoms will be explored, including clinical trials and interventions. Taken together, this module will help students understand the sensory world around them and it’s impact on neurodevelopmental conditions better.  

Aims:

By the end of the module the student will be able to: 

1. Define and differentiate sensory reactivity symptoms such as hyperreactivity versus hyporeactivity  


2. Describe sensory reactivity symptoms common in neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism  


3. Explain potential underlying mechanisms  


4. Be aware of the impact of sensory reactivity on daily life  


5. Critically evaluate sensory reactivity interventions   

Assessable learning outcomes:

1. Define and differentiate sensory reactivity symptoms such as hyperreactivity versus hyporeactivity  


2. Describe sensory reactivity symptoms common in neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism 


3. Explain potential underlying mechanisms  


4. Be aware of the impact of sensory reactivity on daily life  


5. Critically evaluate sensory reactivity interventions  

Additional outcomes:

Students will participate in critical discussions and evaluations of research findings and interventions in large and small groups. 

Outline content:

The module comprises 7 x 2-hour seminars 

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Seminars will include a variety of teaching and learning methods; interactive lectures, group work, discussions and debates, training in sensory assessments and problem-based learning and evaluations of research. In addition, ‘core’ reading will be set throughout to prepare students for the content of the sessions. 

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Seminars	14
Guided independent study:
Wider reading (independent)	28
Wider reading (directed)	28
Revision and preparation	30
Total hours by term	100	0	0
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written exam	75
Report	25

Summative assessment- Examinations:

The module is assed by a summer exam (75%) and coursework (25%).  

The 1.5-hour Summer Exam will require students to answer 1 essay question on topics covered in the module (75%).  

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Written report – Research proposal (25%) 

Formative assessment methods:

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 via a resit examination in the University resit period. 

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 October 2021