COG3111 - Cognitive Neuroscience

Leader: Dr Dianne Wuillemin

Offered

Gippsland First semester 2007 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

This unit provides an overview of the human nervous system and of its cellular components, as substrates for cognitive processes. The physiological mechanisms underlying perception, attention, memory and language are examined in healthy brains and through a range of neurological disorders. Consciousness and the mind are examined with particular emphasis on the understanding of computational networks be they in electronic or biological machines.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students should be able to:

1. demonstrate an understanding of the basic mechanisms of brain function at the cellular and neuroanatomical levels;
2. critically examine literature relevant to the areas of thinking, awareness, conscious and unconscious processing, and the mind;
3. display creative problem solving skills, effective communication, clear, concise report writing and accurate statistical analyses.

Assessment

Laboratory report (1000 words): 25%
Interactive CD quiz: 25%
Examination (two hours): 50%

Contact hours

3 hours per week (two 1-hour lectures; one 1-hour laboratory)

Prerequisites

COG1111 or PSS1711 and COG1112