module specification

PC5060 - Cognitive and Biological Explanations of Behaviour (2024/25)

Module specification Module approved to run in 2024/25
Module title Cognitive and Biological Explanations of Behaviour
Module level Intermediate (05)
Credit rating for module 15
School School of Social Sciences and Professions
Total study hours 150
 
114 hours Guided independent study
36 hours Scheduled learning & teaching activities
Assessment components
Type Weighting Qualifying mark Description
In-Course Test 50%   MCQ test
In-Course Test 50%   Written test
Running in 2024/25

(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change)
Period Campus Day Time Module Leader
Autumn semester North Thursday Afternoon

Module summary

The aim of this module is to explore the cognitive and biological bases of behaviour. You will learn about neuroanatomy and how neurons communicate with each other; the biological bases of behaviour and cognitive functions (e.g., perception, attention, learning and memory, language processing, and thinking and reasoning); how brain development, drugs, disease and brain damage impact behaviour and cognitive functioning and how these aspects can be linked to mental disorders; and what research with animals can tell us about human cognition and behaviour. This module will thus enhance your knowledge and understanding of core topics in cognitive and biological psychology and equip you with transferable skills necessary for further study in psychology and for working in various professional contexts.

Syllabus

Topics will be drawn from: theories and models of cognitive and biological psychology; neuronal communication; memory; attention; perception; emotion; language and lateralisation; heuristics and biases; expertise and problem-solving; research methods in cognitive and biological psychology; animal research and ethics in cognitive and biological psychology research.

Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity

The learning objectives will be achieved through a combination of lectures, interactive workshops, seminars, supplementary guided web-based learning, and self-managed independent study. You will be encouraged to reflect on your learning throughout the module and to take responsibility to identify any gaps in your knowledge and understanding.

Learning outcomes

At the end of this module, you will:

1. Have critical knowledge and understanding of key perspectives in cognitive and biological psychology and the research on which they are based.
2. Appreciate how the mind (and brain) supports a range of human behaviours and cognitive capacities (e.g., perception, attention, learning, memory, language, thinking and reasoning).
3. Be able to evaluate the methods used in cognitive and biological psychology and demonstrate understanding of their strengths and limitations.

Bibliography