Research Methods in Cognitive Science (PGT) PSYCH5018

  • Academic Session: 2023-24
  • School: School of Psychology and Neuroscience
  • Credits: 10
  • Level: Level 5 (SCQF level 11)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 2
  • Available to Visiting Students: No

Short Description

A series of seminars given by researchers in the School/Institute based upon methods used within their

own area of expertise. The methods topics will cover a broad range of topical research areas chosen to

outline aspects of modern research strategies available to researchers. This will address applied knowledge, skills and understanding of research techniques, as well as critical thinking and generic cognitive skills in the assessment of their coursework 

Timetable

2 hours per week

Requirements of Entry

Typically a 2:1 honours degree in psychology or related discipline.

Assessment

There is one piece of coursework worth 100% of the overall mark. The coursework should be a critical review on a topic relevant to the course (3000 words).

Main Assessment In: April/May

Course Aims

(a) to provide exposure to aspects of current psychological research approaches

(b) to consider which approaches are appropriate to given research questions

(c) to understand the application and implementation of a range of standard and specialised research, practices, materials, and/or equivalent instruments and techniques of enquiry.

(d) to understand the principal theories, and concepts.

(e) to develop a critical understanding of a range of specialised theories, concepts and principles.

(f) to gain an extensive, detailed and critical knowledge and understanding in one or more specialized areas, much of which is at, or informed by, developments at the forefront.

(g) to develop a critical awareness of current issues in experimental psychology and cognitive sciences and related areas.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Critically understand advanced methods of research used in Cognitive Science.

■ Critically evaluate the application of advanced research methods in answering research questions in Cognitive Science

■ Critically evaluate advanced methods of research used in Cognitive Sciences in relation to previous approaches in the field in terms of improving analyses and inferences.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.