Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

None

Co Requisite Comment

None

Aims

The primary aims of this module are:
(1) Introduce students to the principles and methods of neuropsychology
(2) Introduce case studies as an experimental approach
(3) Demonstrate how the damaged brain in combination with recent brain imaging techniques can inform about cognitive functions in areas such as vision, language, motor control and conscious awareness
(4) Develop critical analysis and oral communication skills

Summary:
This module introduces students to the growing field of neuropsychology which examines the relationship between brain structures and functions such as vision, language, motor control, and conscious awareness. As the title suggests, the module focuses on (1) how brain damage leads to deficits in these functions, and (2) how case studies can inform researchers about how the brain works in neurologically healthy people. For example, in prosopagnosia, lesions to the temporal lobes can lead to a profound inability to visually recognize faces (even of the individual’s own face!) but with no impaired vision. Students will critically examine neurological case studies, and learn how this method complements more recent brain imaging techniques in both healthy and damaged brains.

Outline Of Syllabus

The specific themes covered in this module are:
(1) History and development of neuropsychology
(2) Review of brain anatomy
(3) Using case studies to understand the undamaged brain
(4) Case studies across different possible functions e.g.
Vision: e.g., prosopagnosia – impairment in face recognition
Language: e.g., aphasia – deficits in language production
Memory: e.g., amnesia – memory loss following brain damage
Motor control: e.g., apraxia – deficits in motor control
(5) Imaging the healthy and damaged brain – introduction to the different techniques to see the brain (e.g., magnetic resonance imaging)
(6) Methods of assessing impact of brain damage on functions, and methods of rehabilitation

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

(1) Build on prior knowledge of language, perception and cognitive psychology introduced in other modules such as PSY1004 and PSY2014 and expanding to other areas such as motor control. Previous modules have focused on healthy subjects.
(2) Build on prior knowledge of brain anatomy and neurophysiology introduced in other modules such as PSY1004 and PSY2014.
(3) Critically assess individual case studies to supplement critical assessments of other types of research methods (e.g., experimental designs with neurologically healthy subjects)
(4) Develop an integrative understanding of cognitive and motor functions from a combination of case studies and modern neuropsychology methods; learn how neuropsychology can complement and deepen knowledge gained from other areas such as abnormal and evolutionary psychology

Intended Skill Outcomes

(1) Subject-specific skills
-       gain knowledge of how cognitive and motor deficits can be measured
-       gain knowledge of recent techniques for imaging both healthy and damaged brains
(2) Cognitive/Intellectual/Key skill
-       interpreting and synthesizing case studies
-       oral presentation of case studies which will allow them to practice their presentation skills before they do their 3rd year project presentation at the end of Semester 2
-       develop critical thinking, analysis, and oral communication skills

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The lectures, workshops and practical are needed to discuss the underlying principles and methodology of neuropsychology (ILO 1-4). The small group teaching and presentations allow students to debate issues in neuropsychology, discuss specific case studies, develop presentation skills, and provide time for individual presentations (ILO 5-6). The private study provides student with the opportunity to evaluate the evidence and carry out further reading as they see fit.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The summative report will assess (1) students’ understanding of the principles of neuropsychology; (2) their ability to critically interpret neuroimaging methods and case studies; and (3) their ability to apply their knowledge in order to design a study that can test a neural model (ILO 1-4).

The formative oral presentations will provide students (1) the opportunity to research their own case study; (2) the opportunity to critique other students’ interpretations; (3) the opportunity to practice communication skills; (4) the opportunity to work as a team; and (5) receive feedback.


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, Stage 3 students may only be offered a resit if an honours degree is not awarded on the first occasion. Failed assessments will be the same format during the August resit period.

General Notes

N/A