Unit information: Biological Psychology in 2017/18

Unit name	Biological Psychology
Unit code	PSYC20004
Credit points	20
Level of study	I/5
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 2D (weeks 19 - 24)
Unit director	Dr. Ludwig
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	None
Co-requisites	None
School/department	School of Psychological Science
Faculty	Faculty of Life Sciences

Description including Unit Aims

The unit develops your knowledge of the biological basis of cognition and behaviour. It covers a number of psychological functions (e.g. learning, vision, executive function) with an emphasis on the neural mechanisms that shape these functions, and the range of techniques used in the study of the link between brain, mind and behaviour (e.g. electrophysiology, neuroimaging, neuropsychology).

The aims of the unit are to build on Year 1 Biological Psychology and the methodological approaches to the study of the central nervous system, the application of these to particular cognitive domains, and the interaction between the central nervous system and behaviour.

Intended Learning Outcomes

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

1. Describe the topic and methodological approaches to the study of central nervous system and its links to behaviour.
2. Explain the application of these approaches to the study of specific areas of psychological science.
3. Identify these methodologies in other areas of psychological science.
4. Appraise the conceptual and historical issues in the subject matter of this unit and their relationship with other areas of psychological science.
5. Demonstrate the skills necessary to stage a seminar-based presentation.

Teaching Information

Lectures, revision session, and seminars (presenting at one of the seminars).

Assessment Information

One 1600-word essay (20%); one oral presentation (20%) and one 2-hour written exam (60%).

Reading and References

The reading list with ‘Essential’, ‘Recommended’ and ‘Further’ reading will be posted on Blackboard.