Summer 2020 - PSYC 325 D100
Learning and Memory (3)
Class Number: 3164
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
May 11 – Aug 10, 2020: Thu, 11:30 a.m.–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby -
Exam Times + Location:
Aug 16, 2020
Sun, 3:30–6:30 p.m.
Location: TBA
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Instructor:
Lesley Schimanski
lschiman@sfu.ca
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Prerequisites:
PSYC 201W and PSYC 221 (or PSYC 280).
Description
CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:
Examination of the phenomena of memory and the retention and reproduction of information. Considers the conditions and principles of retention and recall in short- and long-term memory.
COURSE DETAILS:
How is information learned and stored in the brain? How is it retrieved from storage when it is needed? This course investigates learning at different levels of complexity, such as the simplest forms expressed via behavioural changes (e.g., habituation, sensitization, classical and operant conditioning) and more complex processes that underlie memory for skills, general knowledge, and events/experiences.
After developing an understanding of multiple learning and memory systems, questions that relate these processes with other aspects of cognition will be addressed, such as: How can emotion and stress can influence memory encoding and retrieval? How and what can we learn by observing the behaviour of others? How does memory function develop and also change with advanced age?
All topics in the course are explored in terms of both behavioural processes and neural substrates (e.g., roles of specific brain structures, synaptic plasticity), with a focus on understanding and thinking critically about the original research that generated predominant theories. Throughout, course topics are also related to clinical points of interest, such as how altered learning and memory processes may be involved in aspects of disorders such as autism, Alzheimer’s disease, phobia, post-traumatic stress disorder, and addictions.
Grading
- Assignments: 25%
- In-class activities and presentations: (worth 10)%
- Term Project: (worth 15)%
- Online Quiz: 5%
- Midterm Exams (2): 40%
- Final Exam (cumulative): 30%
NOTES:
Please note that all teaching at SFU in summer term 2020 will be conducted through remote methods. Enrollment in this course acknowledges that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes.
Students with hidden or visible disabilities who believe they may need class or exam accommodations, including in the current context of remote learning, are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as soon as possible to ensure that they are eligible and that approved accommodations and services are implemented in a timely fashion.
Materials
REQUIRED READING:
Gluck, M. A., Mercado, E., & Myers, C. E. (2020). Learning and memory: From brain to behavior (4th ed.). Worth Publishing.
ebook access:
https://store.macmillanlearning.com/ca/product/Learning-and-Memory/p/1319107389
Registrar Notes:
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS
SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.
Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html
TEACHING AT SFU IN SUMMER 2020
Please note that all teaching at SFU in summer term 2020 will be conducted through remote methods. Enrollment in this course acknowledges that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes.Students with hidden or visible disabilities who believe they may need class or exam accommodations, including in the current context of remote learning, are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as soon as possible to ensure that they are eligible and that approved accommodations and services are implemented in a timely fashion.