Human cognition is a key theme in psychology and knowledge of this area aids in interpreting and understanding behaviour in a range of contexts.
This module will examine the cognitive processes involved in attention, memory, reasoning, problem-solving, and decision making and consider the ways in which research on these processes contributes to our understanding of human behaviour. We will consider topics such as memory, false memories, effective learning and problem-solving, and errors and biases in everyday thinking. It provides a good basis for modules in social cognition, applied cognitive psychology, and other areas of psychology.
Total contact hours: 22
Private study hours: 128
Total study hours: 150
Optional to the following courses:
• Social Sciences BSc
Main assessment methods:
Essay (2,500 words) 75%
Magazine article (1,500 words) 25%
Reassessment methods
100% coursework (2,500 words)
The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages (https://kent.rl.talis.com/index.html).
• Goldstein, E. B. (2015). Cognitive Psychology (ISE): Connecting Mind, Research and Everyday Experience. Belmont, Calif, London: Thomson Wadsworth.
• Bruce GE (2011) Cognitive Psychology. Wadsworth Cengage Learning, Australia. 3rd Edn.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
See the library reading list for this module (Medway)
Subject specific learning outcomes:
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate a systematic understanding of key aspects of cognitive psychology, including acquisition of coherent knowledge informed by current research in core topic areas
2. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the range of research methods used in cognitive psychology, and the ability to evaluate their strengths and limitations
3. Evaluate through written analysis and interpretation theories and findings in cognitive psychology and their roles in understanding the nature of human cognition
4. Develop an appreciation of historical, conceptual, and philosophical issues in the study of human cognition
Generic learning outcomes:
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate literacy, analytical and writing skills to present, interpret and discuss concepts, theories and findings in the relevant primary source literature
2. Demonstrate knowledge and awareness of the diversity of theoretical and empirical approaches in psychology
3. Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively psychological concepts, theories and findings to both specialist and non-specialist audiences
4. Critically evaluate the quality of theories and findings in published psychological research, and understand their theoretical and practical implications
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