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PY316: Thinking and Reasoning: From the Laboratory to the Real World

Module Title	Thinking and Reasoning: From the Laboratory to the Real World
Module Code	PY316
Module Tutor	Dianne Catherwood
School	Natural and Social Sciences
CAT Points	15
Level of Study	6
Pre-requisites	Before taking this module you must pass PY208 and pass PY210
Co-requisites	None
Restrictions	None
Brief Description	This module provides a broad ranging review of psychological theories and evidence on human thinking, reasoning, problem-solving and decision-making. The cognitive and emotional processes involved in these capacities re considered with reference to both contemporary cognitive neuroscience and applied psychology. Research from both the laboratory and from daily and natural situations will be explored in order to promote a critical understanding if the way that this area relates to other aspects of human psychology. The degree to which human reasoning follows logical principles will be considered but there will also be an emphasis on “fuzzy” or inductive reasoning that relies on knowledge and is affected by emotional state. There will also be consideration of the errors, biases and cognitive rigidity that can result from this fuzzy approach. The programme will include class discussion and a workshop on decision-making in an applied context such as fire fighting.
Indicative Syllabus	a) theories of thinking, reasoning, problem-solving, decision-making b) the neuroscience of thinking and reasoning c) the psychology of deductive reasoning: why people make errors d) the beneficial influence of prior knowledge on reasoning (analogy & heuristics, expertise) e) the negative effects of prior knowledge on reasoning: biases, errors, rigidity (mental set), etc. f) effects of emotion on reasoning and thinking g) mental models & consequent errors h) decision making and factors affecting choice (e.g., risk, framing issues) i) everyday and social reasoning including in applied contexts such as the fire ground, military or medical contexts j) integrative issues: e.g., the topic of consciousness
Learning Outcomes	i. Knowledge and Understanding By the end of the module students should be able to: a) demonstrate knowledge of the range of theories and methods that encompass cognitive approaches to thinking and reasoning. b) appreciate the importance of social context on decision making. c) appreciate the complexities of applying theory developed from laboratory studies to the broader domains of decision making. ii. Skills There will be an emphasis on a critical approach to evaluating evidence and models relating to thinking and reasoning, Students will be expected to undertake reading independent of the taught programme to understand the full complexity of the issues. Assimilation, synthesis and application of knowledge will be required across the forms of assessment used.
Learning and Teaching Activities	Staff/student contact 16% Student private study 84% Methods include lectures, practical work and group discussions
Assessment (For further details see the Module Guide)	001: 50% Coursework: Report: 2000 words or equivalent 002: 50% Written Exam: End of year, unseen, closed book: 2.00 hours
Special Assessment Requirements	None
Indicative Resources	The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide.

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