Summer 2021 - PSYC 382 J100
Cognitive Neuroscience (3)
Class Number: 3841
Delivery Method: Remote
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Thu, 5:30–8:20 p.m.
Burnaby -
Exam Times + Location:
Aug 17, 2021
Tue, 7:00–10:00 p.m.
Burnaby
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Instructor:
Lesley Schimanski
lschiman@sfu.ca
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Prerequisites:
PSYC 201, 221, and 280.
Description
CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:
Examines the neurophysiological bases of cognitive and perceptual phenomena such as memory, attention, language, thinking, imagery, vision, audition, and sensory processes. The study of human cognitive performance with measurement techniques such as ERP, PET, and MRI is also discussed.
COURSE DETAILS:
There will be 30-60 minutes of synchronous lecture time held weekly in the scheduled meeting time. All lectures will be recorded.
This course discusses how the human experience emerges from nervous system activity, a topic that is far from completely understood. The course begins with a brief historical review of the origins of cognitive neuroscience, and information about modern methodologies used to examine how the brain mediates cognitive function (e.g., neuroimaging, single-cell recording, electrical stimulation, pharmacological and genetic manipulations, and the effects of brain damage).
Working from this foundation, we will critically evaluate questions such as: Do the left and right brain really have different roles and strengths in determining one’s skill set and perceptions? Of how much of the brain’s information processing are we consciously aware? How do different types of sensory information get stitched together into a unified experience, and how do we perceive objects and faces? Is information processed differently by the autistic brain? How do particular sensory events grab our attention, and what neural processes govern how we make decisions?
Grading
- (3) Tests will be held online during scheduled meeting times: 45%
- Assignments: 12%
- Term Paper/Project: 23%
- Final Exam: 20%
Materials
REQUIRED READING:
Gazaniga, M. Ivry, R., Mangun, G. Cognitive Neuroscience: The Biology of the Mind. 5th Edition. W. W. Norton & Company
ISBN: 13: 978-0393603170
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 2021
Teaching at SFU in summer 2021 will be conducted primarily through remote methods, but we will continue to have in-person experiential activities for a selection of courses. Such course components will be clearly identified at registration, as will course components that will be “live” (synchronous) vs. at your own pace (asynchronous). Enrollment 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. To ensure you can access all course materials, we recommend you have access to a computer with a microphone and camera, and the internet. In some cases your instructor may use Zoom or other means requiring a camera and microphone to invigilate exams. If proctoring software will be used, this will be confirmed in the first week of class.
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).