| Unit name | Biological Psychology (Conversion) |
|---|---|
| Unit code | PSYCM0058 |
| Credit points | 20 |
| Level of study | M/7 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 2D (weeks 19 - 24) |
| Unit director | Dr. Ludwig |
| Open unit status | Not open |
| Pre-requisites |
None |
| Co-requisites |
None |
| School/department | School of Psychological Science |
| Faculty | Faculty of Life Sciences |
This central theme of the unit is the biological basis of behaviour. It is structured around a number of key themes (e.g. attention, executive function), with an emphasis on the neural mechanisms that shape cognition and behaviour in those domains. The unit covers a range of techniques used in the study of the link between brain, mind and behaviour (e.g. electrophysiology, neuroimaging, neuropsychology).
Aims:
- Develop student's interest, scientific knowledge and understanding of the study of the interaction between the central nervous system and behaviour.
- Introduce students to the methodological approaches to the study of the central nervous system and the application of these to particular cognitive domains.
- Develop a thorough understanding of the role and importance of converging empirical evidence in the formation of theory.
- Develop a thorough understanding of the way in which theory guides the collection and interpretation
of empirical data.
- Help students to make conceptual links to other areas of psychological science.
- Help students to acquire a wide range of transferable skills.
On completion of this unit, the student will:
- Have a comprehensive understanding and scientific knowledge of the topic and methodological approaches to the study of the central nervous system and its links to behaviour.
- Have a comprehensive understanding of the application of these approaches to the study of specific areas of psychological science.
- Be able to integrate this understanding of these methodologies with other areas of psychological science.
- Be able to plan and contribute to seminar-based presentations of topics covered in this unit and have further improved their scientific writing skills.
This unit comprises weekly lectures, Q&A, revision tutorials, and seminars (presenting at one of the seminars). In addition, support sessions will be available to aid student’s acquisition of more foundational material.
- 2000-word written essay (20%);
- Oral presentation in seminar (20%);
- One 2-hour written exam (60%).
Readings are posted on blackboard and in lecture slides.
