Spring 2026 - PSYC 387 D100
Human Neuropsychology (3)
Class Number: 4715
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
-
Course Times + Location:
Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Wed, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
-
Instructor:
Angelina Polsinelli
angelina_polsinelli@sfu.ca
Office: RCB 6240
Office Hours: Wed 1:00-3:00pm
-
Prerequisites:
PSYC 201, 221, and 280.
Description
CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:
Examines the neural processes that underlie cognitive functioning and behaviour. Topics include neuroanatomy, neuropathology, brain damage, neurological diseases (e.g., schizophrenia, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's), and problems in spatial ability, memory, language, mood and anxiety.
COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:
Learn the fundamentals of functional neuroanatomy
Understand how the brain supports emotion, behaviour, and cognitive function
Introduce topics of neurological disorders and the types of functional impairments that occur as a result
Discuss current trends in assessment, rehabilitation, and treatment of neurological disorders
Explore the intersection of culture and neuropsychological care including areas of growth to ensure equitable health care for all
Grading
NOTES:
Grading scheme is TBD.
Topics:
Development of Neuropsychology; Organization of the Nervous System; Brain Imaging; Frontal, Temporal, Parietal, and Occipital Lobe & Subcortical Neuroanatomy; Learning & Memory; Language; Emotion; Executive Functioning; Neurological Disorders; Neuropsychological Rehabilitation; Neuropsychological Assessment
REQUIREMENTS:
Lectures:
Wednesdays 9:30am - 12:20pm (lectures won't be recorded)
Prerequisites: PSYC 201 (Intro Research Methods), 221 (Intro Cognitive Psychology), and 280 (Intro to Biological Psychology).
Recommended: PSYC 301 (Intermediate Research Methods and Data Analysis), PSYC 325 (Learning & Memory) or PSYC 330 (Attention)
Materials
REQUIRED READING:
Bryan Kolb and Ian Whishaw. (2021). Fundamentals of Human Neuropsychology (Kolb & Whishaw) 8th Edition. Macmillan Learning. *(electronic textbook) + achieve platform
REQUIRED READING NOTES:
Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.
Registrar Notes:
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS
At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.
To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit:
- SFU’s Academic Integrity Policy: S10-01 Policy
- SFU’s Academic Integrity website, which includes helpful videos and tips in plain language: Academic Integrity at SFU
RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION
Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.