Module PPP-4005:
Methods in Cognition and Brain Research

Module Facts

Run by School of Human and Behavioural Sciences

20.000 Credits or 10.000 ECTS Credits

Semester 1

Organiser: Dr Ayelet Sapir

Overall aims and purpose

The module aims to introduce students to the methodological foundations of cognitive neuroscience, while providing examples from selected topics in cognition and brain.

Course content

One part of the module will provide specific examples in selected areas of cognition and neuroscience, including patient studies, psychophysics, MRI, EEG and TMS. This part is composed of guest lectures presenting one or more research methods in cognition and brain. The second part of the module aims to provide in-depth analysis of specific topics within the area of psychology and neuroscience, highlighting the different methods. This part includes students’ evaluation and writing about one selected topic in cognition and brain.

Assessment Criteria

threshold

Adequate answer to the question, largely based on lecture material. No real development of arguments.

good

Reasonably comprehensive coverage. Well organised and structured. Good understanding of the material.

excellent

Comprehensive and accurate coverage of the area clarity of argument and expression. Depth of insight into theoretical issues

Learning outcomes

  1. Able to critically evaluate the strengths and limitations of different research techniques used to study brain-behaviour relationships

  2. Able to discuss and evaluate current models and empirical findings in selective topics in cognition and brain.

  3. Able to succinctly summarise specific topics in writing.

Assessment Methods

Type Name Description Weight
ESSAY Wiki Project 40.00
ESSAY Final Essay 40.00
INDIVIDUAL PRESENTATION Discussion Leading 20.00

Teaching and Learning Strategy

Hours
Lecture

Students will attend a 3-hour weekly session. The session is split into two, so that the lecturer delivers an (approximately) 1.5 hour lecture. The remainder of each class sees students present in class. The presentation schedule varies each week and will be confirmed in class.

 33
Private study

Students will self-study reading materials and lecture materials, and will prepare assignments and in-class discussions. Students can expect to spend approximately 10 hours per week engaging with self-study for this module.

 167

Transferable skills

  • Literacy - Proficiency in reading and writing through a variety of media
  • Computer Literacy - Proficiency in using a varied range of computer software
  • Self-Management - Able to work unsupervised in an efficient, punctual and structured manner. To examine the outcomes of tasks and events, and judge levels of quality and importance
  • Exploring - Able to investigate, research and consider alternatives
  • Information retrieval - Able to access different and multiple sources of information
  • Inter-personal - Able to question, actively listen, examine given answers and interact sensitevely with others
  • Critical analysis & Problem Solving - Able to deconstruct and analyse problems or complex situations. To find solutions to problems through analyses and exploration of all possibilities using appropriate methods, rescources and creativity.
  • Presentation - Able to clearly present information and explanations to an audience. Through the written or oral mode of communication accurately and concisely.
  • Argument - Able to put forward, debate and justify an opinion or a course of action, with an individual or in a wider group setting
  • Self-awareness & Reflectivity - Having an awareness of your own strengths, weaknesses, aims and objectives. Able to regularly review, evaluate and reflect upon the performance of yourself and others

Subject specific skills

  • Understand the scientific underpinnings of psychology as a discipline.
  • Apply multiple perspectives to psychological issues and integrate ideas and findings across the multiple perspectives in psychology.
  • Communicate psychological concepts effectively in written form.
  • Communicate psychological concepts effectively in oral form.
  • Be computer literate for the purpose of processing and disseminating psychological data and information.
  • Retrieve and organise information effectively.
  • Handle primary source material critically.
  • Use effectively personal planning and project management skills.
  • Work effectively under pressure (time pressure, limited resources, etc) as independent and pragmatic learners.
  • Problem-solve by clarifying questions, considering alternative solutions, making critical judgements, and evaluating outcomes.
  • Reason scientifically and demonstrate the relationship between theory and evidence.
  • Understand and investigate the role of brain function in all human behaviour and experience.
  • Use a variety of psychological tools, including specialist software, laboratory equipment and psychometric instruments.
  • Be aware of ethical principles and approval procedures.

Courses including this module

Optional in courses: