Course details

8.3045

Introduction to Cognitive (Neuro-)Psychology

 L
SS 2023 Dr. phil. habil. Annette Hohenberger Hybrid
4h/wk
8 ECTS 		B.Sc modules:
CS-BP-CNP - Cognitive (Neuro-)Psychology
KOGW-PM-KNP - Cognitive (Neuro-)Psychology

CS-BW - Bachelor elective course
CS-MW - Master elective course 		Tue: 10-12
Thu: 10-12

The lecture introduces the broad field of Cognitive (Neuro-)Psychology (C(N)P, its history, method(ologie)s, areas, processes, mechanisms, and implications. We will trace the history of C(N)P to better understand how contemporary research is rooted in or presents alternatives to classical studies and the computational theory of the mind, respectively. Special emphasis will be laid on understanding the architecture of the brain, the function of specific brain areas, as well as method(olog)ical advances in neuroscientific paradigms, such as PET, fMRI, EEG/ERP, and TMS. Core and selected areas of C(N)P will be covered, such as (visual) perception, attention, memory, mental imagery, knowledge representation, decision making, reasoning, (sign) language, development or social cognition. The importance of mechanistic explanations of the functioning of the human mind/brain and the rationale of empirical studies will be outlined. The main textbook is Anderson (2020, 9th edition). In addition, relevant recent literature will be included to point out current and future research trajectories. Furthermore, practical implications and applications of C(N)P in real-life will be highlighted. This course will be taught in hybrid format. It may be attended on-site, on-line, as well as asynchronously. Methods of instruction comprise classical lectures, impulse lectures, flipped classroom, and critical discussions in the classroom (onsite and online), as well as rehearsals. Course credits can be obtained by passing a midterm, a final exam, producing a video (group work), and weekly quizzes. The course has no prerequisites. However, having attended the "Foundations of Cognitive Science" will be beneficial. Anderson, John R. (2020). Cognitive psychology and its implications. Ninth edition. New York, N.Y.: Worth Publishers (available as e-book in our university library)