2002/03
Undergraduate Module Catalogue
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PSYC3414
Neuropsychology, Learning and Motivation (Intercalated Programme)
10 credits
Taught
Semester 2,
Year running
2002/03
Pre-requisite qualifications
Level 1 and 2 Medicine or Dentistry
(MB ChB or BChD)
Pre-requisites
Level 1 and 2 Medicine or Dentistry
(MB ChB or BChD)
Co-requisites
None
This module is not available as an elective
Exclusive with PSYC2014
Objectives
NEUROPSYCHOLOGY: On successful completion, students will possess an understanding of the relationships between human brain function and behaviour. They should become aware of the contemporary shift towards the integration of psychological theories of function with the neurosciences. By the end of the course, students will be able to identify important brain regions in functions including language, memory, emotion and attention.
LEARNING AND MOTIVATION: This course provides knowledge of traditional models of learning such as classical and operant conditioning and imprinting together with an understanding of newer models of learning based on the comparative psychology method. Students will also gain an understanding of the mechanisms by which high order cognitive abilities have evolved in Primates, Apes and Man.
Students should be able to undertake self-directed reading and research reviews to reflect, in more depth, upon issues covered in the module.
Syllabus
NEUROPSYCHOLOGY: General gross neuroanatomy and overview of the brain/behaviour relationship; Cerebral asymmetry disconnection syndromes; Damage, disorder & recovery of function; Language; Memory, bilateral temporal 'lobectomy' - the case of H.M.; The 'anatomy' of memory and structural changes; The functions of the Limbic Lobe; memory, emotion; Attention & Consciousness - the roles of neocortex and subcortex; integration of function; Overview of the evolution of brain and behaviour.
LEARNING AND MOTIVATION: This course takes a comparative approach to explore the nature of human learning abilities and the evolutionary pressures that may have influenced the development of these. The role of operant and classical conditioning theories in explaining complex human behaviour are examined. The nature of species-specific behaviour is described. Human learning abilities and intelligence are placed in this context. Primate social organisation, the nature of social intelligence and the importance of alliance formation is explored. The main thesis examined in this course is that human social complexity is a major evolutionary pressure and that this has been/is responsible for producing the enhanced learning abilities of humans compared to other species and shapes our motivation.
Form of teaching
22 x 1 hour lectures
Internet based learning exercises (IBLEs)
1 x 2 hour subject specific study skills session
Form of assessment
End of semester 2 hour written examination (100%)
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Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to
Geoff Lidster.
Information regarding content of individual modules
should be obtained from the departmental contact who can be found on the
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