Module PSYS1031: INTRODUCTION TO BIOLOGICAL PSYCHOLOGY

Department: Psychology (Applied Psychology) [Queen's Campus, Stockton]

PSYS1031: INTRODUCTION TO BIOLOGICAL PSYCHOLOGY

Prerequisites

• Mathematics GCSE Grade C (or equivalent)

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None

Aims

• To introduce students to the structure and function of the nervous system and demonstrate the relevance of the biological approach in psychology

Content

• The course is divided into four main sections: brain organisation, neural function, perception and sensation, the brain and action. Each section introduces and explores central issues, covering history, empirical findings and their theoretical, interpretation. Each term a 'virtual seminar' on DUO allows students to test their knowledge of the material covered. This is followed-up by a seminar with a member of staff in which remaining areas of difficulty are addressed. Revision lectures are provided in the summer term

Learning Outcomes

• Acquisition of knowledge of the areas of neuroscience and perception
• Detailed understanding of some sub-areas of neuroscience and perception

• Emerging understanding of the relationship between theory and data

• Developing ability to organise and utilise knowledge
• Developing written communication skills

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Student acquisition of a broad range of knowledge relating to neuroscience and perception is facilitated by the material covered in lectures, direct seminars and virtual seminars, and the provision of appropriate reading lists. Assessment of the breadth and depth of this knowledge is achieved via the summative essay and the summer examination
• Detailed understanding of some sub-areas of neuroscience and perception is supported by elements of lecture content which use examples to provide more detail about selected topics and issues. Seminars further emphasise these selected examples and give students the opportunity to understand some of the methods employed, and data collected, in more detail
• The ability to organise and utilise knowledge is developed through students' preparation for and participation in seminars. The essay and examination assess students' abilities to use the knowledge acquired through reading and seminars. Seminar activities guide students' emerging understanding of the relationship between data and theory by providing examples of methods and issues arising from these and how these relate back to theory

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

One 1500 word essay, one assignment for seminar presentation

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University