Introduction to Cognitive Psychology and Neuropsychology from edX

Psychology is the study of how we feel, see, hear, speak, learn and narrate our story in the world. Cognitive psychologists primarily focus on how our mind works and how it develops from the moment we are born and through childhood to reach its full capability. This course is intended for anyone with an interest in Psychology, it does not require any previous expertise or knowledge of the subject.

Learners will explore the key ideas, models and findings of the main cognitive functions, including memory, language, attention and perception.

The course will also provide insights into the core research methods used to study the mind, brain and behaviour (from behavioural experiments to the study of patients with brain damage, and the use of neuroimaging techniques). In doing so, learners will understand the main methods and materials used to explore human feelings, sensations and thinking as well as the way humans learn and interact with their own selves and others.

This course will give learners an understanding of the historical development of modern Psychology, and a familiarity with what we now know about our own mind-body system through an exciting journey inside our mind and how it evolves throughout our lives with the help of brain plasticity.

What's inside

Learning objectives

An introduction to the history and key debates in psychology and neuropsychology exploring the main different cognitive functions and how they interact with one another.
The key techniques and methods to study the mind.

The main theories, models and concepts of attention, memory, language, perception and emotional processing

An introduction to the history and key debates in psychology and neuropsychology exploring the main different cognitive functions and how they interact with one another.
The key techniques and methods to study the mind.
The main theories, models and concepts of attention, memory, language, perception and emotional processing

Syllabus

Unit 1: What is Cognitive Psychology: history and current core debates

To learn about the key findings and assumptions of Cognitive Psychology.

To familiarise learners with some of the central debates in Cognitive Psychology.

To understand the relationship between the mind and the brain, as well as the role of genes and experience in shaping human behaviour.

Unit 2: How do we measure the mind? Introduction to Psychology’s main research methods

To provide an understanding of the main methods in Cognitive Psychology.

To learn about neuroimaging techniques and neuropsychological findings and how they contribute to our knowledge of the human brain.

To develop a critical approach to methods and how each of them helps answer specific research questions

Unit 3: Introduction to the psychology of human language

To learn the main theories and models related to human language acquisition and to critically evaluate the extent to which empirical studies support different theoretical claims

To understand the main models accounting for the development of different components of language.

To develop a critical approach to theories highlighting the crucial role of learning context during language acquisition (shared attentional orienting).

Unit 4: Introduction to memory, perception and cross-modal interactions

To learn the main ideas and models of working memory and its role in relation with short- and long-term memory.

To understand how language and memory interact with perception to facilitate aspects of our daily life.

To develop a critical approach to the modular understanding of the mind and appreciate how sensory modalities greatly influence each other.

Unit 5: Introduction to attention, consciousness and free will

To learn the psychological concept of attention and how it shapes thinking.

To understand the contribution of neuropsychology to our understanding of human attention.

To develop a critical approach to literature on the relationship between attention and consciousness.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Teaches working memory, which plays a crucial role in daily tasks

Examines how thinking is shaped by attention

Develops critical thinking skills through analysis of research methods

Explores the interplay of memory, language, and perception

Provides a comprehensive understanding of human cognition

Introduces the core debates and assumptions of Psychology

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Cognitive Psychology and Neuropsychology with these activities:

Review: 'Introduction to Cognitive Psychology' by Eysenck, M. W., & Keane, M. T.

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By reviewing this key introductory text, you'll build a strong foundation in cognitive psychology, becoming familiar with its history, main debates, and core concepts.

View Cognitive Psychology on Amazon

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Skim the chapters to get an overview of the topics covered.
Read each chapter thoroughly, taking notes on key concepts and ideas.
Summarize the main points of each chapter in your own words.

Explore Cognitive Psychology Tutorials

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Deepen your understanding by seeking out online tutorials that provide clear and concise explanations of key concepts. This will complement your learning from the course materials.

Browse courses on Cognitive Psychology

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Identify reputable sources for cognitive psychology tutorials.
Watch or read the tutorials, taking notes on important points.
Review the tutorials periodically to reinforce your knowledge.

Participate in a Study Group or Online Forum

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Engage with fellow learners to discuss course concepts, share insights, and quiz each other. This collaborative approach will enhance your understanding and retention.

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Join an existing study group or create your own.
Meet regularly to discuss the course material and ask questions.
Participate in online forums to connect with a wider community of learners.

Five other activities

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Solve Cognitive Psychology Practice Problems

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Engage in targeted practice by solving problems that cover various cognitive functions. This will enhance your understanding and solidify your grasp of the material.

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Find practice problems online or in textbooks.
Attempt to solve the problems on your own.
Check your answers and identify areas where you need further clarification.

Create a Concept Map of Cognitive Functions

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Enhance your understanding by visually representing the relationships between different cognitive functions. This will help you integrate and solidify your knowledge.

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Identify the key cognitive functions covered in the course.
Brainstorm how these functions are connected and interact.
Create a visual map that illustrates these connections.

Review: 'Cognitive Psychology: A Student's Handbook' by Newstead, S. E.

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Supplement your learning by reviewing this comprehensive handbook, gaining insights into the theoretical foundations and empirical research in cognitive psychology.

View Human Reasoning: The Psychology Of Deduction on Amazon

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Read through the chapters, focusing on the key concepts and theories.
Take notes on the main ideas and supporting evidence.
Engage with the review questions and exercises to test your understanding.

Attend a Cognitive Psychology Workshop or Conference

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Immerse yourself in the field by attending specialized workshops or conferences. This will expose you to cutting-edge research, industry trends, and the latest advancements in cognitive psychology.

Browse courses on Cognitive Psychology

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Research and identify relevant workshops or conferences.
Register and attend the event.
Actively participate in sessions, take notes, and ask questions.

Develop a Research Proposal on a Cognitive Psychology Topic

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Challenge yourself by designing a research proposal that investigates a specific cognitive phenomenon. This will require you to apply your knowledge, develop a research question, and propose a methodology.

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Identify a research question that aligns with your interests and the course material.
Review the literature to build a strong theoretical foundation.
Develop a clear research design and methodology.
Write a comprehensive research proposal outlining your research plan.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Cognitive Psychology and Neuropsychology will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Neuropsychologist

Neuropsychologists are healthcare professionals who specialize in the assessment and treatment of cognitive and behavioral problems caused by brain injury or disease. By combining knowledge of psychology and neuroscience, Neuropsychologists play a crucial role in understanding how cognitive processes and neural structures interact. This course can help build a foundation for a successful career in Neuropsychology.

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Cognitive Neuroscientist

Cognitive Neuroscientists study the relationship between the brain and cognition, specifically focusing on how brain activity relates to mental processes like memory, attention, and decision-making. The combination of cognitive psychology and neuropsychology covered in this course would provide a comprehensive understanding of this field, making you a highly competitive candidate for Cognitive Neuroscience roles.

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Psychologist

Psychologists use their expansive knowledge of human behavior and cognition to conduct scientific research and provide therapeutic treatments. An understanding of cognitive psychology and neuropsychology is essential for success as a Psychologist. This course would provide you with valuable insights about how the human mind works and how different psychological disorders impact cognition and behavior.

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Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapist

Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapists work with individuals who have cognitive impairments, such as those resulting from brain injury or stroke. This course can provide you with the foundation to understand the cognitive deficits these individuals face and to develop effective rehabilitation strategies to improve their cognitive functioning.

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Educational Psychologist

Educational Psychologists work in educational settings to understand and improve teaching and learning processes. The course's focus on how cognitive functions develop and interact is highly relevant to this field. It can provide you with insights to design effective educational interventions and support students' cognitive development.

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Human Factors Engineer

Human Factors Engineers design products, systems, and environments to minimize human error and optimize human well-being. The course's emphasis on cognitive functions like attention and perception will provide you with practical insights into how people interact with their surroundings, equipping you for a successful career as a Human Factors Engineer.

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Speech-Language Pathologist

Speech-Language Pathologists assess and treat individuals with speech, language, and swallowing difficulties. With a solid understanding of human language as part of this course, you will gain valuable insights into the neural mechanisms involved in language processing and production, enriching your knowledge base and enhancing your effectiveness as a Speech-Language Pathologist.

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User Experience (UX) Researcher

UX Researchers focus on improving the user experience in various digital platforms. Understanding cognitive psychology helps UX Researchers design user interfaces that align with how people think and interact. The course's exploration of memory, attention, and perception provides valuable knowledge to optimize user engagement and satisfaction.

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Forensic Psychologist

Forensic Psychologists apply psychological principles to legal contexts. Understanding cognitive functions like memory and attention is crucial for evaluating the credibility of witnesses and understanding criminal behavior. This course provides a basis for a successful career in Forensic Psychology, enhancing your ability to make informed expert opinions.

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Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineer

AI Engineers are responsible for developing and implementing artificial intelligence systems. This course can provide you with a strong foundation in cognitive processes like learning and problem-solving, enabling you to design AI systems that are more efficient, user-friendly, and intuitive.

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Product Manager

Product Managers are responsible for the development and marketing of products. Understanding cognitive psychology can help you understand customer needs and design products that align with their cognitive processes, leading to successful product launches and increased customer satisfaction.

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Data Scientist

Data Scientists use data to extract insights and solve problems. An understanding of cognitive psychology, particularly in areas like attention and perception, can be valuable in designing user interfaces for data visualization tools and in understanding how users interact with data.

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Marketing Manager

Marketing Managers develop and execute marketing strategies to promote products or services. Understanding cognitive psychology provides valuable insights into consumer behavior and decision-making. This course can help you tailor marketing campaigns that effectively engage target audiences and drive desired actions.

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Technical Writer

Technical Writers create clear and concise instructions and documentation for technical products. Understanding cognitive psychology, particularly in areas like memory and attention, can help you organize information in a way that makes it easy for users to understand and follow.

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Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems. Understanding cognitive psychology can help you create software interfaces that are user-centered and easy to use, enhancing the overall user experience.

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