PY3CNWM-Cognitive Neuroscience of Attention and Working Memory

Module Provider: Psychology
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:6
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites: PY2RM Research Methods and Data Analysis
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2019/0

Module Convenor: Dr Eva Feredoes

Email: e.a.feredoes@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:
This module will explore the brain mechanisms underlying attention and working memory. The topics covered will include a historical background to the cognitive neuroscience of attention and working memory, the latest theories and research in these areas, and how attention and working memory relate to and interact with other cognitive functions. The format will consist of lectures, group discussions and student presentations.

Aims:
The aims of this module are:
- for students to become familiar with theories and research underlying the cognitive neuroscience of attention and working memory;
- to develop the ability of students to critically evaluate research and published scientific reports of research into this area;
- for students to develop the ability to study independently.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of this module students will be able to

1. Critically analyse empirical research on working memory and/or attention.Ìý

2. Apply their understanding of the controversies in the field to their knowledge of key theoretical explanations.

Additional outcomes:

Students will gain experience from participating in evaluative discussions of research and theory in large and small groups. Weekly continuous assessment questions ensure material is regularly revisited to aid learning.

Outline content:

The module comprises 7 2-hour long seminars. We will explore how the brain supports attention and working memory, from fundamental neural mechanisms through to more complex interactions between these and other cognitive functions. In addition to the brain-related mechanisms of these functions, the range of methods to investigate them will also be covered, as well as current controversies in the fields.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Seminars involve lectures andÌýinteractive discussions. ÌýStudents are expected to come prepared to sessions, and to work independently in a self-directed manner.

Contact hours:

Ìý	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Seminars		15
Guided independent study:		85
Ìý	Ìý	Ìý	Ìý
Total hours by term		100
Ìý	Ìý	Ìý	Ìý
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written exam	75
Set exercise	25

Summative assessment- Examinations:
1.5 hours

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Coursework is assessed by weekly set exercises (Continuous Assessment Questions) and a final exam (75%). The 1.5-hour Summer Exam will require students to answer 1 essay question on topics covered in the module.Ìý

Formative assessment methods:
Students will be provided with feedback on their coursework essay by seminar tutors or on the content of their presentation by seminar tutors and peers. This feedback will help students prepare for the final exam.

Penalties for late submission:
The Module Convener will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day[1] (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;

where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at:
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A mark of at least 40% overall

Reassessment arrangements:
Reassessment is by re-examination in August/September

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Last updated: 15 May 2019