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Neuroscience and the Mind (PSYC30018)

Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 1
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This subject explores the relationship between the brain and psychological attributes, such as behaviour and cognition. It covers a number of specific areas which may include:

  • the structure and function of the brain in general and clinical populations
  • how to measure brain activity, and how brain activity can be used to inform models of cognitive function
  • a variety of cognitive functions and their neural underpinnings, such as: representation of objects, rules, intentions, decisions, laterality, memory, number processing, attention and perception.

Intended learning outcomes

Knowledge


On completion of the subject students should demonstrate knowledge of:


  • The key research findings that underpin specific domains of cognitive neurosciences
  • The strengths and limitations of cognitive neuroscience methods used to examine the relationship between brain function and behaviour
  • How dysfunction in cortical systems is associated with symptoms of neurologic and psychiatric conditions
  • Ethical considerations of conducting and interpreting human and animal cognitive neuroscience research

Skills


On completion of the subject students will have had the opportunity to develop skills in:


  • Critically evaluating studies using cognitive neuroscience methods to examine brain and behaviour relationships
  • Identifying and justifying meaningful and appropriate methods of investigation for cognitive neuroscience research questions
  • Interpreting data accurately on the basis of appropriate analytical methods
  • Evaluating and drawing conclusions from research findings so as to inform different levels of society: individual clients, policymakers, health professionals
  • Communicating psychological research findings effectively in oral and written formats

Application of knowledge and skills


On completion of this subject students should be able to apply their knowledge and skills to:


  • Provide a critical evaluation of cognitive neuroscience evidence so as to inform individual or collective decision making
  • Conduct, statistically analyse and evaluate cognitive neuroscience methods to answer a psychological question
  • Oral debate of cognitive neuroscience research approaches to discovering new basic knowledge and clinical aetiology

Generic skills

Students will be given appropriate opportunity and educational support to develop skills to:

  • critially evaluate studies exploring the relation between the brain and behaviour
  • test hypotheses, analyse and interpret data and to communicate scientific research effectively
  • develop skills in the oral and written communication of scientific research

Last updated: 20 November 2024