Learning objectives
The student will have to deepen and integrate the knowledge of the cognitive and emotional systems of the brain through an experimental approach that provides the basis for understanding and measuring the complex interactions between the multiple mental processes (perception, attention, learning and memory). All these processes will then be related to reasoning and problem solving skills.Alla fine del corso mi aspetto che tu abbia una comprensione dei fondamenti del funzionamento mentale, per apprezzare come la ricerca di base in laboratorio (sia la ricerca umana che non umana) aiuti a comprendere e identificare questi processi nel comportamento.
Prerequisites
none.
Course unit content
The course deals with the following: -
Methods of investigation of mental and emotional functioning
Perceptual and attentional processes
Learning processes: classical and operant conditioning
Memory systems
Reasoning and decision-making processes
Full programme
RESEARCH METHODS TO STUDY MENTAL FUNCTIONING:
-Correlational studies. Experimental studies. Single-case studies.
-How to measure mental processing and its neural correlates: “Mind reading” by measuring brain activity."
PERCEPTION AND ATTENTION: Relationship between perceptive process and reality; Selective attention and distraction.
LEARNING: Habituation; Classical Conditioning; Operant Conditioning Other Learning Processes.
MEMORY: Memory Systems; Working Memory and intelligence; Memory and Emotion; Memory errors; how to improve memory.
REASONING AND DECISION MAKING: deductive (syllogisms and logic) and inductive (heuristics) reasoning; Diagnostic Reasoning and Cognitive Biases.
Bibliography
Goldstein E. Bruce: Cognitive Psychology: Connecting Mind, Research, and Everyday Experience. 5th edition.
Publisher: Cengage Learning,
ISBN: 9781337408271
* previous editions are also suitable. The teacher will use the 3rd edition.
Teaching methods
The course will be delivered in traditional mode through face-to-face lessons. The slides of the lessons as well as other support material for the preparation of the exam will be available on the Elly platform of this course.
Assessment methods and criteria
The final examination takes place through a written multiple choice test.
Other information
This course of 2 CFU (20 hours of teaching) is part of the integrated course Medical Humanities.
