Physiological Psychology (PGT Conv ODL) PSYCH5079

  • 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
  • Taught Wholly by Distance Learning: Yes

Short Description

This course provides a broad-based understanding of classic and contemporary theory and research in the Physiological Psychology.

Timetable

None

Requirements of Entry

At least a 2:1 honours degree or equivalent

Excluded Courses

None

Assessment

Students will produce one 1,500 words critical review essay (e.g. in the style of Nature's News and Views) weighted at 70% of the overall grade. Three quizzes weighted each 10% (total 30%) will form the rest summative assessment for the course.

Course Aims

This course provides a broad-based understanding of classic and contemporary theory and research in Physiological Psychology including, the development of the nervous system; the biological basis of human and non-human animal behaviour, typical and atypical neuropsychology; evolutionary theories of behaviour; the roles of hormones and genetics in behaviour; critical evaluation of cognitive neuroimaging techniques.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

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

■ Critically consider how the structural components of neurones contribute to cellular communication and human and non-human animal behaviour

■ Using evidence from typical and atypical neuropsychology, critically consider how brain regions and networks are specialised and contribute to the biological basis of behaviour.

■ Critically evaluate how biological theories (e.g., natural selection, sexual selection, inclusive fitness) can inform questions about both human and non-human animal behaviour

■ Critically evaluate the evidence for genetic and hormonal influences on behaviour

■ Develop critical thinking about the use of specific techniques to solve a given problem in cognitive neuroscience.

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.