Mental architecture and basic processes

Competences / Learning outcomes to be gained during study

- Students should be able to critically analyze the relevant scientific texts in this field of study
- Students should develop a research sensitivity favoring the establishment of a dialogue between researchers from other areas of knowledge.
- Students should acquire learning skills that allow them to conlinue studying in a way that will be largely self-directed or autonomous.
- Students should be able to apply the basic principies and methods of cognitive psychology.
- Students should be able to analyze and interpret correclly the results obtained in the experiments of cognitive science, applying the pertinent statistical methods.

Learning objectives

The course aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental structures and mechanisms underlying human cognition. Learning objectives include gaining insights into the mental frameworks that support language, learning and thought Students will explore key theories and models of cognitive architecture, learn to analyze basic cognitive processes, and develop critical thinking skills to evaluate research in cognitive psychology and related areas.

Additionally, the course seeks to enhance studenls ' ability to apply theoretical knowledge to research scenarios, fostering an appreciation for the complexity and interconnectedness of mental funclions.

Course plan

1. Learning and Reasoning

2. Numerical Cognition

3. Language Processing

 

Teaching methods and general organization

The course is based on lectures, autonomous readings of articles relaled to each topic and in-class group presentations and discussion.

Assessment

The evaluation will be the sum of the grades obtained in three in-class group presentation sessions (25 points each, for a total of 75 points) anda multiple-choice exam al the end of lhe term (25 poi nis).
Giving a mínimum of two presentations and taking the exam is required to qualify for evaluation. lf a student qualifies for evaluation but does not achieve an overall grade of 50 points or more, re-evaluation of the exam is allowed . Presentations are not subject to reevaluation. The final grade will be the sum of the grades oblained in the presentation sessions and the grade obtained in the re-evaluation exam. If a student does achieve an overall grade of 50 points or more, re-evaluation of the exam is allowed after formally renouncing to the grade obtained in the first exam. Renounce
must be done within the ten days following the publication ol the grades.

 

Examination-based assessment

Under exceptional and justified circumstances, a single examination (100% of the grade) can be scheduled. Students must request this alternative during lhe firsl 20 days after the course starts.
If a grade ol 50% is not achieved, re-evaluation is allowed taking a second exam with the same characteristics as the original one.
If a student does achieve 50% ol the grade, re-evaluation ol the exam is allowed after formally renouncing to the grade obtained in the first exam. Renounce must be done within the ten days lollowing the publication of the grades.