Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

None

Co Requisite Comment

None

Aims

• to develop an understanding of the relationships between mind, brain, and behaviour;
• to promote an understanding of the research and theory relevant to the study of cognitive functioning in selected areas of interest;
• to present evidence gained from approaches of Cognitive Psychology, Cognitive Neuropsychology, and Cognitive Neuroscience;
• to understand and critically evaluate primary scientific research studies and use them as evidence in coursework and exams

The course is taught by structured learning activities to provide an account of research, models, and theories in areas of Cognitive Psychology, Cognitive Neuropsychology and Cognitive Neuroscience. These presentations are supplemented by essential private study.

Outline Of Syllabus

Historical background, the neural substrates of cognition (biological foundations), research methods, selected areas of interest: attention, perception, memory, emotion and language.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

At the end of this module the student will:

Describe the empirical approaches of cognitive psychology, neuropsychology and neuroscience and their different contributions to our understanding of cognition and clinical applications;

•       Explain some of the major concepts used to describe cognitive processes such as perception, attention,
memory, and language;
•       Read and understand scientific articles discussing these concepts
•       Evaluate and discuss some of the major theories addressing these concepts;
•       Relate cognitive processes to certain areas and networks of the brain;
•       Describe the empirical approaches of cognitive psychology, neuropsychology and neuroscience and their
different contributions to our understanding of cognition and clinical applications.

Intended Skill Outcomes

At the end of this module the student will be able to:

• Independently research and use primary literature,
• Critically evaluate research publications
• Describe a conceptual overview of the field of cognitive science

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The material implies a large amount of factual knowledge so that present in person teaching activities are used as the principle and most effective mode of imparting the core knowledge. This knowledge and understanding is assisted by detailed lecture handouts and slides.

Additional non-synchronous online interactive activities will enable the students to experience some of the research paradigms through online labs and to explore the core material through different learning materials (e.g. videos or further reading) and small group discussions in more depth. Students are encouraged to develop a deeper understanding of the course material and to motivate them towards a more active type of learning at all times.

Private study is essential for in depth review of knowledge imparted through learning activities and in addition the students will be guided towards formative active learning activities (making flashcards and glossaries etc).

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The examination will be used to assess knowledge, independent learning, and understanding of material relevant to the module, as well as the ability for critical thought.


FMS Schools offering Semester One modules available as ‘Study Abroad’ will, where required, provide an alternative assessment time for examinations that take place after the Christmas vacation. Coursework with submissions dates after the Christmas vacation will either be submitted at an earlier date or at the same time remotely.

If the module is failed students will resit failed assessments in the same format during the August resit period.

General Notes

N/A