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Module Descriptions

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UoR Home > Module Descriptions > PY25I: Neuroscience 2 (Cognitive Neuroscience)

PY25I: Neuroscience 2 (Cognitive Neuroscience)

Module Provider:

Psychology

Number of credits:

10 [5 ECTS credits]

Level:

I (Intermediate)

Terms in which taught:

Spring

Module Convenor:

Dr PM Riddell

Pre-requisites:

PY11C

Co-requisites:

Modules excluded:

Module version for:

2006/7

Aims:
The aims of the module are that the student should further their understanding of the neural bases of cognition, and some effects of brain damage on cognition.

Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module the student will be able to:

  • Show knowledge of theory and research in aspects of cognitive neuroscience, in the form of written examination answers and other coursework assignments e.g. essays.
  • Apply knowledge of research methodology in one of these areas to designing and carrying out a short empirical project (miniproject) and writing a report on it, if he or she undertakes a miniproject in a related area. See "Teaching and Learning Methods".

  • Additional outcomes:
    Students will have the opportunity to apply their general knowledge of research methodology, data analysis and literature searching (from PY24A and PY25G) in essays and miniprojects completed in areas related to this module, and to participate in group discussions and give seminar presentations.

    Outline content:
    Methods and modularity in cognitive neuroscience. Neural bases of cognition, for example, priming and explicit memory, executive function. Neuropsychological disorders, e.g. Parkinson's disease, dementia.

    Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
    (a) Lectures on cognitive neuroscience.
    (b) Recommended reading in cognitive neuroscience.
    (c) Miniprojects (empirical projects that students undertake in small groups, with staff guidance) will be available in areas related to this module. Students plan projects, carry them out and analyse data in groups over 5 weeks, but write reports individually. Single Honours students undertake one miniproject in term 5, in a different area from any miniproject taken in Term 4. Joint Honours students undertake a miniproject only if they failed to complete one in Term 4.
    (d) Seminar groups will be organised in this area. Seminar groups provide the opportunity to discuss lectures and recommended reading, prepare and deliver oral presentations with feedback, and research and write essays. Students will join one seminar group each term, (normally in an area different from that of their miniproject if taken).

    Contact hours:

      Autumn Spring Summer
    Lectures   8  
    Tutorials/seminars   2/3*  
    Practicals   5**  
    Other contact (eg study visits)      
           
    Total hours      
           
    Number of essays or assignments   1 or 2 essays* 1 miniproject report**  
    Other (eg major seminar paper) Conceptual & Historical Issues assessment     

    *  If student is in seminar group related to this module. Single Hons students write two essays, Joint Hons write one.  ** If student is taking the term 5 miniproject in a related area.

    Assessment:
    Coursework
    Twenty-five percent of the credit will be contributed by an average mark for the Conceptual & Historical Issues assessment, all miniproject reports and all seminar essays completed in Terms 4 and 5. Each miniproject report will carry double the weight of one essay in the average.
    Relative percentage of coursework : 25%
    Penalties for late submission
    In accordance with University wide policy.
    Examinations
    One-hour unseen multiple-choice and/or short-notes examination at end of Spring Term (25%). One-hour unseen essay type examination in Summer Term (50%).
    Requirements for a pass
    A mark of 40% overall
    Reassessment arrangements
    Summer examination: re-examination in September.

    Page last updated 31/Jul/2006
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