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PSYC3851: Learning and Memory: Theories, Neural Bases, and Clinical Applications

Please ensure you check the module availability box for each module outline, as not all modules will run in each academic year. Each module description relates to the year indicated in the module availability box, and this may change from year to year, due to, for example: changing staff expertise, disciplinary developments, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback.

Type Open
Level 3
Credits 20
Availability Available in 2025/2026
Module Cap
Location Durham
Department Psychology

Prerequisites

  • 60 credits from Level 2 Psychology

Corequisites

  • None

Excluded Combinations of Modules

  • None

Aims

  • In this module, you will learn about the psychological and neural mechanisms underlying core cognitive processes with a focus on learning and memory. You will also explore how differences in these circuits may relate to various disorders and diseases with consideration of evidence from human and non-human studies.

Content

  • This module examines the psychological and neural basis of cognition and behaviour.
  • Example topics include fundamental principles of neuroscience, learning theory, neural basis of learning and memory, diseases affecting memory, fear and anxiety, and clinical conditions (e.g., Alzheimers, PTSD).
  • Critical evaluation of relevant research, considering aspects such as methodologies, techniques, and experimental design.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:

  • Understand key psychological mechanisms that drive behaviour and cognitive processes.
  • Understand core neurobiological mechanisms underlying behaviour and cognition.
  • Discuss and apply methodologies, techniques, and experimental design relevant to the subject and subject related research.

Subject-specific Skills:

  • Evaluate relevant studies, theories, and concepts.
  • Formulate research questions and design experimental using appropriate methodologies.
  • Link concepts across lectures and topics.

Key Skills:

  • Apply key concepts and literature to demonstrate understanding.
  • Summarise complex literatures clearly and succinctly.
  • Develop well-structured academic arguments with critical thinking, supported by scientific evidence.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • Teaching methods include lectures and within lecture interactive activities, such as practical activities, discussions, and problem-based learning, as well as use of audio-visual materials. These will give students the opportunity to apply their knowledge to clinical or research contexts and critically discuss findings and theories.
  • Online materials will supplement lectures, ensuring flexible learning opportunities.
  • The summative assessment will be in the form of an original research proposal. The summative examination will assess students' acquired knowledge of theoretical principles and empirical studies, and their ability to organise and synthesise them coherently and critically in response to set questions.
  • The summative assessments will also assess students' written communication skills.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

ActivityNumberFrequencyDurationTotalMonitored
Lectures221 per week2 hours44 
Preparation and Reading1156 
Total200 

Summative Assessment

Component: AssignmentComponent Weighting: 40%
ElementLength / DurationElement WeightingResit Opportunity
Essay1500 words100
Component: ExaminationComponent Weighting: 60%
ElementLength / DurationElement WeightingResit Opportunity
Online Examination2 hours100

Formative Assessment

None.

More information

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