Skip to main content

Unit information: Introduction to Cognitive and Biological Psychology in 2020/21

Please note: you are viewing unit and programme information for a past academic year. Please see the current academic year for up to date information.

Unit name Introduction to Cognitive and Biological Psychology
Unit code PSYC10013
Credit points 20
Level of study C/4
Teaching block(s) Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24)
Unit director Professor. Bowers
Open unit status Open
Pre-requisites

None

Co-requisites

None

School/department School of Psychological Science
Faculty Faculty of Life Sciences

Description including Unit Aims

This unit provides an introduction to the fundamental approaches of cognitive psychology, biological psychology and the intersection of the two fields. The aims of this unit are to cover concepts relevant to phenomena such as attention, perception, language, memory, vision, emotion and the neurophysiological processes involved in these. The unit will cover concepts relevant to brain functioning from chemistry, biology, cognitive science, and neuroscience, to explore how biological and cognitive explanations are complementary.

Intended Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, a student will be able to:

- Identify the major theoretical perspectives taken in cognitive and biological psychology. - Recognise the new insights into how the mind (brain) supports a range of key human behaviours and cognitive capacities. - Define the methodologies and techniques used in cognitive and biological psychology.

Teaching Information

At the start of each week, asynchronous material will be provided (in bite-sized pieces where appropriate) along with 1) clear guidance on pre-reading (or pre-class activities), 2) lecture content itself, and 3) engagement activities. The teaching for each week will conclude with a synchronous session where feedback will be provided and questions from students answered.

Assessment Information

timed online multiple-choice examinations

Reading and References

Essential:

Schacter, D. L., Gilbert, D. T., Wegner, D. M., & Hood, B. M. (2019). Psychology (3rd European ed.). UK: Palgrave MacMillan.

Further/Recommended Reading:

To be provided in the form of book chapters and articles.

Feedback