PY2CN-Cognition
Module Provider: Psychology
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:5
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring / Summer module
Pre-requisites: PY1CG Cognition and Learning
Non-modular pre-requisites: For Single Hons Psychology students only
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded: PY2CNS Cognition and Neuroscience or PY2CN1 Cognition 1 or PY2CN2 Cognition 2
Current from: 2018/9
Module Convenor: Prof Philip Beaman
Email: c.p.beaman@reading.ac.uk
Summary module description:
PY2CN Cognition
Aims:
The student should gain an understanding of theory and research into memory and cognition, including the different forms of memory (e.g., working memory, long-term memory, episodic, semantic, procedural and prospective memory), and different aspects of thinking and higher-level cognition such as counterfactual thinking, creativity, decision-making, problem-solving and reasoning.
Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module students will be able to:
1.Critically analyse research on memory and higher-order cognition
2.Show knowledge of the information-processing approach to understanding human cognition, conducted by means of experimental studies.
3.Appreciate the range of different memory phenomena, including the proposed subdivision of human memory into different memory sub-systems.
4.Understand the nature and consequences of impaired cognition (e.g., because of a closed-head injury).
5.Correctly identify real-world examples of the types of human thought and decision-processes discussed within the module.
6.Show knowledge of biases and errors in human reasoning and other thought processes
Additional outcomes:
Students will be able to apply general knowledge of research methods to the topics covered within this module in order to critically evaluate the results of scientific studies. Students will be able to apply knowledge of memory and thinking obtained during this module to practical real-world problems.
Outline content:
(a) The approach to understanding human memory and thought processes by means of experimental studies and behavioural data.
(b) The results of such research, including the proposed subdivision of memory into different memory systems and the analysis of human thought in terms of the extent to which humans can be considered "rational" beings.
(c) Humans as information-processing systems.
(d) Processes by which humans solve problems.
Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
a) Lectures on topics to do with memory and thought, supported by Blackboard VLE online Discussion Board and recommended reading on memory and thought.
(b) Seminars providing the opportunity to discuss lectures and recommended reading, prepare and deliver oral presentations with feedback, and research and write essays.
(c) Continuous assessment exercises tied to course content.
(d) Revision sessions preparatory to multiple choice tests and end-of-year exam.
Summative Assessment Methods:
Method |
Percentage |
Written exam |
50 |
Written assignment including essay |
30 |
Set exercise |
20 |
Summative assessment- Examinations:
This module is assessed by a combination of coursework (50%), and summer examination (50%).
The 2 hour and 15 minute Summer Exam includes a set of multiple choice questions covering the full range of topics taught in lectures, as well as a written component. The written component will require you to answer 2 questions on topics covered in the module: one on Autumn Term topics, one on Spring Term topics.
Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:
Coursework includes 1 essay, with supporting seminar (30%) and continuous online assessment of your understanding of the material covered in lectures (20%).
Penalties for late submission:
The Module Convener will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:
where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day[1] (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.
The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at:
http://www.reading.ac.uk/web/FILES/qualitysupport/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.
Assessment requirements for a pass:
A mark of 40% overall
Reassessment arrangements:
Reassessment of the module is by examination in August/September
Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books:
2) Specialist equipment or materials:
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding:
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:
Last updated: 28 September 2018
THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MODULE DESCRIPTION DOES NOT FORM ANY PART OF A STUDENT'S CONTRACT.