PSY-10034 - Module Specification
School of Psychology
Faculty of Natural Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2020/21

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2020/21

This module will allow you to explore a range of topics in biological and cognitive psychology. You will learn about how psychologists have carried out research to better understand human behaviour and thought, from expert staff with experience of working in these areas. Typical topics could include the the structure and function of the brain, neuronal impulses, how we make sense of sensory stimuli, memory, higher level cognitive processes such as problem solving, and the ways in which genes and hormones influence our behaviour. Each week, you will attend two, one hour lectures, and a one hour seminar class, which will introduce you to the central theoretical concepts and research evidence, and equip you with the study skills you need to succeed within the module and throughout the rest of your studies at Keele.

To give a brief introduction to the biological basis of behaviour; to introduce students to contemporary conceptions of perception and attention, memory, and learning, in their historical context; to identify for students important theoretical and methodological approaches for studying perception and attention, memory, learning and other behaviours; to facilitate the
development of students understanding of these contemporary theories and methods.

Intended Learning Outcomes

explain key aspects of human thought and behaviour using biological and cognitive psychological theories and perspectives;: 1,2
describe current and historic research within biological and cognitive psychology, and explain how research methods and theoretical understanding have developed over time;: 2
discuss ways in which biological and cognitive psychology can explain individual differences;: 2
actively engage with independent study, including carrying out searches of relevant literature relating to biological and cognitive psychology.: 1,2


1

Study hours

Lecture attendance (24 hours)
Seminar attendance (12 hours)
Lecture reading (24 hours)
Seminar preparation (24 hours)
Presentation preparation (10 hours)
Coursework preparation (56 hours)

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment