Module: PSY4000-20 Introduction to Comparative and Cognitive Neuroscience

Level: 4

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Scott Jones

Module Tutor Contact Details: s.jones4@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module aims to provide you with a comprehensive introduction to psychological science. The module will be formed from the components of the major demarcations within the subject as defined by the BPS, and will include sessions on employability.

The module’s objectives are:

To introduce you to some of the major components of Psychology as described by the British Psychological Society.

To place the study of behaviour in context and describe it clearly in its role as a science.

To provide a suitable basis for progression to the modules covered in the second year of study.

To provide and develop a perspective of the workplace and how aspects of psychology are factors in your employability.

2. Outline syllabus

Introduction, historical and conceptual perspectives – experimental based approach.

Studying behaviour scientifically

Cognitive Psychology

Behavioural Neuroscience

1. Introduction:

The course will be outlined and placed in context.

Historical and Conceptual Perspectives 2: The history of the science of psychology will be introduced. From the beginning of objective measures of human behaviour to the current measurement of behaviour within the psychological sciences.

Cognitive Psychology: The central topics of cognitive psychology are introduced. These include: sensation, perception, consciousness, learning and memory.

Behavioural Neuroscience: The brain and behaviour are described and discussed here. Topics will include Neurons, the nervous system, brain structures and functions, plasticity and the relationship to learning, memory and cognition.

Applying your knowledge – employability: How psychology features in the world of employment is central to this part of the module. Different perspectives on psychology will be discussed including how it appears in the media and popular culture. The role of psychologists in our modern world and how courses like this one relate to that role will form the basis for these sessions. Transition from university level to scientist will be described, as will the role of professional research psychologists. Within this context ethical behaviour will form part of our discussions. Finally, aspects of a psychology based degree that will be transferable to employability in non-psychology focused professions will be described and discussed.

3. Teaching and learning activities

Teaching: Two hours of lectures and a two hour seminar per week each week

Learning: Through lectures and seminar activities. Materials used in the formal sessions will be provided on Minerva for revision where they will be augmented by additional material where appropriate. Seminar sessions will include staff and student presentations, large and both large and small group work, aimed at discussing material presented in the lectures and in the reading for that week (as identified in the handbook).

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: EXAM
• Description: Unseen multiple choice examination (1 hour)
• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW
• Description: Workbook 2000 words equivalent
• % Weighting: 50%