Module manager: Dr Melanie Burke
Email: m.r.burke@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2024/25
Successful completion of all pass for progression modules in Level 2 of: BSc Psychology or MPsyc, BSc Advanced Psychology or BA Philosophy, Psychology and Scientific Thought (and its International and Industrial variants)
| PSYC2518 | Cognitive Neuroscience |
| PSYC2555 | Neuroscience |
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module is designed to be applied, so knowledge can be put to practical use. The premise for understanding how the brain works and the technology available to measure brain function is of clear interest in both research and clinical settings. The module will guide students through understanding how these different brain imaging and stimulation systems work, in order to acknowledge their ultimate application in the real world of clinical medicine and research. It is a challenging module, and ideal for those wanting to pursue their interest in the brain and neuropsychology further. The module incorporates an oral presentation (in small groups, worth 20% of the module mark), a coursework essay (50%) and a written exam (30%). The SAQs are designed to test the breadth of knowledge obtained across the course and focus on how the imaging/stimulation systems work and record signals. Conversely, the essay assessment provides an opportunity to apply knowledge of the technologies to a given clinical/research problem in greater depth.
This module aims to introduce students to a variety of cutting edge methods that are currently used to image the anatomical and functional brain in humans. The module will provide students with an understanding of how these imaging methods are used in both medical diagnosis and neuropsychological research. The module is guided by recent publications in the field of neuroscience and experimental psychology, and will provide students with examples of how current neuropsychological problems can and are addressed using specific imaging techniques. The module will provide an understanding of the nature of the neuronal signal measured, as well as spatial and temporal constraints of the various imaging methods described (including electroencephalogy (EEG), functional Magnetic Imaging (fMRI), and functional Near Infra-Red Spectroscopy (fNIRS)). Students will be given examples of imaging research taking place throughout the world (and also within the department), alongside clinical applications. In addition a virtual lesion technique (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)) and neuronal hyperactivity states (tDCS stimulation) will also be discussed, with their uses in research and rehabilitation respectively. The knowledge gained in the module will provide students with an excellent understanding of the use imaging technology with its applications.
1. To evaluate the differences in functional and anatomical approaches to imaging the human brain.
2. To recognize what signal is being recorded, and how it is measured.
3. To interpret and evaluate the benefits and limitations in diagnosis and/or treatments using these different techniques (EEG, fMRI, NIRS and TMS).
4. To utilize the knowledge obtained to critically evaluate the appropriate applications of these techniques in certain research and/or clinical settings.
Students will have the opportunity to critically review, discuss and present very new research techniques and findings in the area of neuropsychology. They will become knowledgeable about the different strengths and weaknesses of various neuropsychological tools and should be able to recognise how these can be applied to research/clinical questions.
WEEK LECTURE TOPIC LECTURER FEEDBACK / REVISION
1 A short history of neuropsychological methods MB
2 Introduction to EEG techniques JD
3 Research using EEG JD MCQ: EEG
4 Introduction to MRI/fMRI MB
DISTRIBUTE PRESENTATIONS (Random Groups n = 3-4)
5 fMRI used in research and clinical practice JB MCQ: fMRI/PET
6 Introduction to fNIRS MB
7 Research applications using fNIRS MB MCQ: fNIRS
8 PRESENTATIONS (10%) in G.44 (Psychology Building) MB Peer feedback during session
9 Introduction to brain stimulation (TMS and DCS) MB
10 Applications of brain stimulation in research MB MCQ: TMS/tDCS
11 Revision Session - Q & A MB Module review / Q&A session.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| On-line Learning | 4 | 1 | 4 |
| Lecture | 10 | 1.5 | 15 |
| Seminar | 1 | 4 | 4 |
| Private study hours | 127 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 23 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 150 | ||
Preparation for each lecture 2 x 10 - 20 hrs
Preparation for each MCQ exam 4 x 2 - 8 hrs
Preparation for week 10 presentation - 15 hrs
Preparation for end of semester exam - 44 hrs
Further reading of relevant literature within the course - 40 hrs
Formative feedback will be provided at the end of each topic (EEG, fMRI, fNIRS and TMS). There will be 4 online MCQ's in total with 10 questions in each. This will provide students with guidance on their knowledge during the course. MCQs will be made available in weeks 3, 5, 7 and 9 (see table of lectures above).
In addition, feedback is given on their oral presentations for each group (<5 students). This will provide feedback on their presentation skills and also interpretation of the paper they are presenting (usually provided in week 8). It is a chance to also review their critical analysis skills.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| In-course MCQ | 1 | 0 |
| In-course MCQ | 2 | 0 |
| In-course MCQ | 3 | 0 |
| In-course MCQ | 4 | 0 |
| Oral Presentation | Group project 15 mins | 20 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 20 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Online Time-Limited assessment | 2.0 Hrs 0 Mins | 80 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 80 | |
The exam will consist of two parts. Essay questions (60% of module mark) and 20 short answer questions (20%) under timed exams conditions.
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 01/07/2025
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