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Cognitive neuroscience is a method of studying cognitive processes using techniques such as fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging) and EEG (electroencephalography) that allow brain activity to be measured in ‘intact’ individuals. Cognitive Neuropsychology is an approach for investigating and theorizing about cognitive processes by examining patterns of impairment following brain injury. This module reviews the ways in which neuroscientific and neuropsychological data have been used in models and ideas about the nature of brain processes and systems involved in core cognitive (and related) processes including: perception (especially object, spatial and facial perception), memory, emotion, language, consciousness and attention.

i. Knowledge and Understanding
By the end of the module, students should be able to demonstrate that they:
a) Understand the relationship between brain function and important aspects of cognition;
b) Are familiar with the methods of cognitive neuroscience and neuropsychology
c) Can debate the strengths and weaknesses of cognitive neuroscience and neuropsychology as approaches for cognitive modelling;
d) Have knowledge of how key neuroscientific and neuropsychological research findings have been employed in models of cognition

ii. Skills
By the end of the module, students should be able to demonstrate that they can:
a) Interpret the findings of cognitive neuroscientific and neuropsychological research;
b) Use evidence from cognitive neuroscience and neuropsychology in assessing the validity of models of cognitive function;
c) Critically compare cognitive neuroscience and neuropsychology with other methodologies within cognitive psychology, and choose the most appropriate methodology for a particular investigation.

The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide.