southampton

Module overview

This module aims to familiarize students with current topics in cognitive psychology and neuroscience, particularly those that are actively researched at the Centre for Perception and Cognition in the School of Psychology. Through lectures and tutorials, students will explore theoretical and experimental approaches to a wide range of topics including perception, attention and cognitive control, memory, learning, decision-making, neuroimaging, reading and the applications of AI in Psychology.

This module stands out for its emphasis on the latest advancements in cognitive psychology and its efforts to establish methodological connections across different domains. Lectures offer a concise overview of key concepts in perceptual and cognitive processing, underscoring their significance in the ongoing research conducted by the lecturers. This enables an in-depth examination of recent research projects, exposing students to state-of-the-art techniques such as eye tracking, neuroimaging, and artificial intelligence. Real examples from lecturers' work offer firsthand experience of methods and concepts applicable in academic or non-academic careers.

Learning and Teaching

Teaching and learning methods

Weekly lectures will be the key teaching method for the course. Some lectures will be followed by bespoke tutorials such as lab demos. All lectures will be recorded and made available on Blackboard together with module materials, and slides.

To enhance student learning and align with the module’s outcomes, two methods will be employed. Firstly, students can participate in experimental lab demos after selected lectures and learn to apply their knowledge practically. Secondly, a curated list of themes will be provided after each lecture, serving as essay topics for the exams. During optional discussion meetings with the lecturer, students can delve into topics. Lecturers will highlight further reading, facilitating comprehensive learning.

Study time
Type	Hours
Teaching	24
Independent Study	176
Total study time	200

Resources & Reading list

Textbooks

Hans Op de Beeck, Chie Nakatani (2019). Introduction to Human Neuroimaging.

Michael W. Eysenck, Mark T. Keane (2020). Cognitive psychology: a student’s handbook.

Assessment

Assessment strategy

Assessment for this module will be conducted through two distinct methods:

1)Midterm: Following a session on the usage of generative AI while adhering to academic integrity guidelines, students will learn how to utilize AI technology as a tool to aid their research and writing. For the midterm assessment, students will write an essay incorporating the use of AI. This exercise will enable students to experience firsthand how responsible usage of AI should be approached and will provide them with feedback from lecturers on optimizing this process. The assessment will be in the form of coursework, and topics can be selected from the list provided by each lecturer.

2) Final Assessment: This assessment will consist of an essay on a topic covered in the delivered lectures of the module. The essay will necessitate students to critically analyze and synthesize existing research literature on their chosen topic. Each lecturer will introduce a list of topics, from which students can select one to explore in greater depth during the module. Subsequently, students will write an essay during an in-person exam session, providing them with an opportunity to engage in structured, focused writing and assessment.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Mid-term essay	50%
Final essay	50%

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Breakdown
Method	Percentage contribution
Exam	100%

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External

Current Topics in Cognitive Psychology