To what extent are our thoughts and actions shaped by processes outside our awareness? Are we wrong believing that we can act out of free will? This module tackles a variety of current and/or critical topics in cognitive psychology/neuroscience. The overarching theme focuses on free will and metacognition, looking in particular at the extent to which we control, or feel we control, our thoughts and behaviour. We will discuss research that has used a variety of methods, including behavioural, animal and neuroimaging techniques. Practical applications and relevance to everyday understanding of behaviour is emphasised throughout. You will learn how to evaluate pieces of original research in terms of their findings, conceptual underpinnings and/or methodological choices. This will enable you to both gain a deep understanding of the topic areas as well as important communication and critical analysis skills.
Lecture 16, Seminar 16
Short Writing Piece. Assessment Details: 600 words Paper Review worth 40%.
Report. Assessment Details: 1500 words Seminar Report worth 60%.
Reassessment Method: Like for like
On successfully completing the module, students will be able to:
1) Demonstrate systematic knowledge and understanding of core concepts, theories and findings in cognitive psychology and neuroscience and how they can be applied to everyday life
2) Critically evaluate arguments, assumptions, methods, and evidence from research papers in cognitive psychology and neuroscience
3) Draw on appropriate sources to construct valid evidence-based judgements on topics relevant to cognition in action
4) Synthesise and interpret conflicting or incomplete evidence from the cognitive psychology/neuroscience literature
5) Clearly and concisely communicate their analysis of issues in cognitive psychology and neuroscience
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