PY3CA-Cognitive neuropsychology of ageing

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 or PY2RMP Research methods in Psychology
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr Jayne Freeman
Email: J.E.Freeman@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module explores some of the changes in cognitive functioning that take place in heathy ageing and dementia. We will examine the possible causes and consequences of cognitive changes, and consider some of the interventions that may help to reduce or prevent cognitive decline in later life.

Aims:

The aim of the option is to enable students to explore, in depth, the nature and possible causes of cognitive changes in both healthy and abnormal ageing. The option aims to give students experience of critical evaluation of existing research and theoretical perspectives within the cognitive ageing literature and to help them develop the ability to study independently

Assessable learning outcomes:

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

1. Critically evaluate research approaches to examining the impact of ageing on cognitive functioning


2. Appraise key theoretical explanations for the effects of ageing on cognitive functioning, with critical reference to the literature

Additional outcomes:

Students will have the opportunity to develop the following skills:

1. Analytical skills: sourcing relevant information, evaluating, critiquing, decision making, problem solving


2. Communication skills: verbal and written


3. Organisational skills: planning, prioritising, storing & using information

Students will gain experience from participating in evaluative discussions of research and theory in large and small groups. They will also gain practical experience of administering neuropsychological tests.

Outline content:

This module comprises seven 2-hour seminars.

This option will use interactive seminars, to explore the nature and basis of cognitive changes in both healthy and abnormal ageing. We will critically evaluate research examining the effects of healthy ageing on cognition (primarily memory and executive function) and will analyse some of the dominant theories of age-related cognitive decline. We will also look at abnormal ageing, focussing primarily on Alzheimer’s disease; however we will also examine some of the other common types of dementia (including fronto-temporal dementia and vascular dementia). Finally, we will consider some of the factors that might contribute to the maintenance of good cognitive functioning in later life (e.g., diet, exercise, and social engagement).

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The interactive seminars will involve a variety of activities, such as small and large group discussions, quizzes and practical tasks.  Students will also have the opportunity to administer and take part in a range of neuropsychological tests used to assess cognitive functioning in older adults. Students may be required to watch screencasts in advance of the seminars.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Seminars	14		1
Guided independent study:	85
Total hours by term	99	0	1
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written exam	100

Summative assessment- Examinations:

A 1.5-hour Summer Exam (100%) will require students to answer one essay question on topics covered in the module (100%).

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Formative assessment methods:

Students will have the opportunity to provide the module convenor with up to two essay plans for 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: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/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 the August resit period.

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: 3 April 2023