School of Social and Health Sciences
PSY5312
MIND & BRAIN
Semester 2 2022
Welcome to Mind & Brain
In this 20-credit module we critically examine the ways in which cognitive and neuro psychology use various methods and theories to understand a range of psychological phenomena. Looking at broad topics such as perception and memory, we consider everyday typical functioning as well as different psychological disorders. Throughout the module, you are encouraged to think about the inter-relationship between cognitive (mind) and biological processes (brain), along with the role played by mediating factors such as stress and emotion. Historical developments, cultural considerations, and international aspects are also included to provide a balanced and broad coverage of different topic areas.
This module connects to the rest of your degree programme by linking key areas of the discipline; showing how different areas of psychology interrelate and that all areas of psychology are inextricably linked. The topics covered, associated activities, and form of assessment will enable you to develop critical thinking and the ability to synthesise and apply your learning. These are all valuable skills which will contribute to your development across the programme.
Each week, there are (i) pre-activities to complete, (ii) face-to-face lectures/workshops, and (iii) post-activities. Student contribution and participation in all aspects of the module is essential. Full and active engagement is vital for effective learning and it is essential that you undertake assigned and independent reading along with the activities designed to facilitate meaningful participation in the face-to-face sessions.
The assessment for PSY5312 Mind and Brain is an information leaflet with an associated written exposition. This constitutes one piece of assessed work worth 100%. The word limit for this piece of work is 4,000 words maximum. Throughout the semester we will dedicate time to the assessment, either in terms of providing guidance on writing skills, searching for literature, or viewing past examples of the assessment.
We hope that you enjoy the module and we welcome your constructive feedback at any point throughout the semester.
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1.
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Module Code and Title:
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PSY5312 Mind & Brain
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Where and When:
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Lectures:
Monday 14:00-15:30 Auditorium
Thursday 09:00-10:30 Auditorium
It is expected that you will attend each lecture and register your attendance via the digital register. If you cannot attend for any reason, please get in touch with the module leader.
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Module Leader:
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Module Leader Contact Details & Availability:
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Office: SB46
Office hours: virtual & face to face appointments available
Please email to make an appointment
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Module Team Tutors / Contact Details:
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Office hours: virtual & face to face appointments available
Please email to make an appointment
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Summary of Content
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In this module, we will explore the brain and cognitive bases of psychological functions, including memory and perception, as well as psychological dysfunction, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and schizophrenia. Each week, we will explore the topics through lenses of neuro (Lisa) or cognitive (Paul) psychology. See pages 9-10 for a breakdown of the topics we will cover each week.
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Learning and Teaching Strategies:
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On successful completion of the module, you will be able to:
1. Demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of cognitive and biological psychology as evidential disciplines.
2. Engage actively with theoretical and methodological debates and controversies in the above areas.
3. Demonstrate a critical approach to assessing arguments, evidence and perspectives.
In line with the Universities Blended Learning approach, pre and post session materials will be provided. Lectures will be recorded so students who cannot attend are not disadvantaged. However, please endeavour to attend as many lectures as you can, as there will be workshop activities that will be directly related to the assessment and your attendance and engagement will be monitored.
This module is aligned with Leeds Trinity University’s membership to the Race Equality Charter which aims to improve the presentation, progression and success of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic staff and students as part of LTU’s commitment to developing an anti-racist university. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion are at the core of our Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategy (LTAS).
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How your Module is Delivered
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Your time on campus, learning through in-person teaching, is at the heart of your academic experience and the way we deliver our programmes. This is supported and further enhanced by additional engagement activities and opportunities online and through digital teaching materials.
This blended approach builds upon our experience and good practice gathered throughout the 2020-21 and seeks to ensure a positive learning and teaching student experience.
Through this approach, your programme of study has been carefully designed around a three-phase model (Preparation / Live / Post) and the following definition of blended learning:
“blended learning is the thoughtful integration of classroom face-to-face learning experiences with online learning experiences”[1]
1. Preparation:
You will be given clear tasks to support you in preparing for live (synchronous) teaching. This could include watching a short-pre-recorded lecture (or other open educational resource), reading a paper or text chapter or preparing other material for use in class. Your Module Tutor will give you information to help you understand why you are completing an activity and how the Tutor will build on it in the live (synchronous) session.
2. Live:
All your live (synchronous) teaching will be designed around active learning, providing you with valuable opportunities to build on preparation tasks, interact with staff and peers and be provided opportunities to surface any misunderstandings.
3. Post:
Follow-up activities will include clear opportunities for you to check understanding, for staff to receive feedback from you and your peers to inform subsequent sessions and for you to apply learning to new situation or context.
As an institution, we recognise that the current circumstances may present challenges for students in terms of attendance in synchronous teaching sessions – that is those sessions in real-time online. Staff will ensure that any synchronous activity (i.e., live sessions) will be accessible (either via Moodle or Teams) for those not able to join at the time of a session, either through recordings (where appropriate), through the provision of activities to work through in your own time or in a shared space or other means. You should make your module tutor aware if you are going to miss sessions and check Moodle/Teams for information and activities. If you have any questions, you should contact your module tutor.
If you are unable to access any delivery in any format for technical reasons, including to do with access to equipment, you must contact your programme co-ordinator immediately. IT/technical issues will not be deemed grounds for mitigating circumstances.
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Assessment and Deadlines
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Assignments must be submitted on Moodle via Turnitin by 12.00 noon on the deadline day stated below.
Submission of Work
You are required to submit your assessment electronically via the Turnitin system on the PSY5312 Moodle page. Note, using Turnitin means you are relying on an electronic system. It is therefore wise to allow yourself appropriate time to meet the submission deadline in case you experience any technical difficulties. Do not leave it to within seconds of the deadline. You are responsible for the correct assignment being submitted for assessment on time; please check the e-mail receipts to make sure that you have submitted the correct file.
Your assessment will be marked anonymously, so you must make sure that your name or student number does not appear anywhere on your assessments.
Late Submission: Where there is no agreed request for an extension, a deduction of 5 marks will be made for assignments which are submitted in the 24-hour period immediately after the deadline. This means that work submitted one minute after the submission time will lose 5 marks. Subsequent deductions of 5 marks will be made for assignments submitted during subsequent 24-hour periods (not including non-working days), down to a mark of 40% for work of a pass standard (50% for Level 7 modules) and 0% for work of a fail standard. Work submitted more than 5 working days after the deadline will not be marked and a mark of zero will be returned.
The word count for the assessment is clearly stated in the brief (4,000 words). This does not include the references list. If you exceed the word limit, any work after 4,000 words will not be marked. Whilst you are not penalised for being under the word count, work that is substantially under the word count will be more limited in meeting the learning outcomes.
Plagiarism is a form of cheating which involves presenting another person’s ideas or expressions without acknowledging the source. The penalties for this are severe. Extensive and repeated instances can result in your removal from the degree programme. Any work submitted for assessment must be your own work. Any material used, from whatever source, must be clearly acknowledged. Any words that are not your own should be shown as quotes and their author and publication details given. Where you paraphrase the words of another you should make this clear and give details of where you found this material. You should make use of the referencing guidelines on the Library website and complete the online plagiarism tutorial to ensure that you are providing such details correctly https://lib.leedstrinity.ac.uk/iguana/www.main.cls?surl=Referencing Doing so will gain you marks for showing evidence of research and ability to reference. Not doing so could lead to accusations of plagiarism. You can also use Turnitin in advance of the deadline to enable you to check for elements of plagiarism in your work and then correct these
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Assessment
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Component form
(eg. Essay or Online test)
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Magnitude
(eg. 2,000 words
or 2 hours)
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Weighting
and/or
Pass/Fail
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Deadline
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Feedback Available
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Objective(s) assessed
(eg. 1, 2)
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Information Leaflet & Written Exposition
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4,000 words
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100%
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8th April 2022
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12th May 2022
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1, 2, 3
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Assessment:
The assessment will be introduced to you at the start of the semester and will include an ‘assessment unpacking session’ to explain in more detail what you will be required to do.
Leaflet & Written Exposition (100% of module mark): The assessment for PSY5312 Mind and Brain is an information leaflet with an associated written exposition. This constitutes one piece of assessed work. The word limit for this piece of work is 4,000 words maximum.
The number of words allotted to the two elements (leaflet and written exposition) is a matter for your own judgment and will differ from one person to another, depending on your individual work. The overall mark achieved for this piece of work is based on the overall quality of both elements combined; (so one is not “more important” than the other). You are welcome to discuss your ideas with the module coordinators if you would like further guidance.
Extensions. The provision for a student to request an extension to a coursework deadline submission has been changed. Last year there was no limit to the number of extensions a student could request. Now a student may request an extension up to 5 days on two occasions only. One of those may be extended up to 10 days if supported by a Personal Tutor (or equivalent). The relevant regulation is: Section: General Academic Regulations, Deadlines and extensions, Regulation 72.
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Resources
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A couple of books that you will find useful are listed below and are available as e-books from the library. These books will provide you with a basic understanding of the topics, however you should not rely on these. At Level 5 we expect you to be engaging with journal articles for the most part. A selection will be provided for you each week but you are encouraged to search for journals articles yourself via the library website (see below).
Core texts
Pinel, J. (2017). Biopsychology. (10th Ed). Upper Saddle River: Pearson. https://lib.leedstrinity.ac.uk/iguana/www.main.cls?surl=search&p=b1bbb48c-23a3-4bd8-99c2-75d45d93355f#recordId=1.656090&srchDb=1
Groome, D. H., Brace, N., Dewart, H., Edgar, G., Edgar, H., Eastgate, A., et al. (2006). An introduction to cognitive psychology: Processes and disorders. Hove: Psychology Press.
https://lib.leedstrinity.ac.uk/iguana/www.main.cls?surl=search&p=b1bbb48c-23a3-4bd8-99c2-75d45d93355f#recordId=1.289056&srchDb=1
Journals
The full text for all journal articles is available through EBSCOhost, accessed via the library portal online. Journals unavailable electronically or at Leeds Trinity are available from the British Library (requests for articles from the British Library can be made at Leeds Trinity library counter and are currently free of charge).
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11. Academic Support
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If you have any questions or are unsure about any of the course material please arrange to discuss with the module coordinators Lisa (l.webster@leedstrinity.ac.uk) and Paul (p.mcgivern@leedstrinity.ac.uk). Other sources of support can be found below.
Learning Hub
This provides academic support to all students at the University, including help with the essay writing process, revision strategies, time management, critical thinking and help with research projects and dissertations.
Learning Hub Contact Details:
Call Us: 0113 283 7168
Text Us: 07785622972
Email Us: learninghub@leedstrinity.ac.uk
Tweet Us: www.twitter.com/LTLearningHub
Facebook Us: www.facebook.com/learninhubatleedstrinity
Skype Us: learninghubleedstrinity
More content focused support can also be accessed through use of your Peer Learning Mentors. These are upper level students trained to provide support to other students in their departments.
Peer Learning Mentors host drop-in sessions where you can go along and get guidance with your academic studies, as well as running an online hour where they will reply to any emails sent in to plm@leedstrinity.ac.uk. These session times will be publicised, and if you want to find out about when your sessions are then you can follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.
Peer Learning Mentor Contact Details:
Email Us: plm@leedstrinity.ac.uk
Tweet Us: www.twitter.com/PLMLTU
Facebook Us: www.facebook.com/PLMLTU
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Action taken/Changes made in response to student feedback
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This module consistently receives very good feedback from students.
Students previously asked for the assessment related topics to be presented earlier in the schedule and we have now brought these forward by several weeks. Students also appreciated the level of support given to the assessment so this will not only continue but be extended to ensure you have all the tools to reach your full potential.
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Essential Library and Learning Resources
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Leeds Trinity’s Library is based in the Andrew Kean Learning Centre (AKLC). In it, you will find:
• Friendly, helpful staff
• Books to support your studies
• Group, quiet and silent study spaces
• PCs
• Laptops for loan
• A café where you can relax
• A 24 hour IT room
The Library Website
Access either by clicking on the Library icon on MyLTU or go to https://lib.leedstrinity.ac.uk
From here you can:
• Find and access print and electronic books
• Research a specific topic
• Access subject specific resources
• Get information on referencing
• Check our latest opening hours
• Access library help and support
• Book a study room
• Use our ‘Request’ service to suggest an item for the library to purchase
Getting help
For help with using the Library, contact the Library Helpdesk:
Email: libraryenquiries@leedstrinity.ac.uk
Or call: 0113 283 7244
You can also make an appointment with your Liaison Librarian, Rachel Davies who will help you get the most out of the library during your time at Leeds Trinity. Rachel delivers teaching sessions and offers 1-2-1 appointments to help you develop your research and referencing skills.
Contact Rachel:- r.davies@leedstrinity.ac.uk
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ASSESSMENT BRIEF
Module: PSY5312 Mind & Brain
Assessment Title: Leaflet & Written Exposition
Weighting: 100% of the total module mark
Submission Deadline: 12.00 noon on 8th April 2022
Submission Method: Submit your work to the link on the PSY5312 Moodle page.
Feedback Date: Feedback will be available on Moodle on 12th May 2022.
Word Count: The word count for this assessment is 4,000 words. This does not include the references list. Anything exceeding this word limit will not be read.
Referencing: APA 7 formatting conventions should be followed. Please refer to the psychology writing guide, which includes examples of how to reference in accordance with APA 7 style (see here for guidance: APA 7th Referencing (leedstrinity.ac.uk)).
Assessment Details
Aims
This assessment is in two parts. Each part requires you to write for a different audience. In the first part (the leaflet), you will be writing to a layperson who may not necessarily have any knowledge of psychology. In the second part (the exposition), you are writing for a fellow professional/academic. Bearing the different audiences in mind, the written style and the content should differ accordingly.
The aim of this assessment is for you to demonstrate that you can do the following, which relate to the module learning outcomes:
1. Use the library facilities to search for and select recently published research articles.
2. Read journal articles and summarise the key points of their findings.
3. Write an organised and critical summary of recently published research about the chosen topic area.
Leaflet
You have been asked by a national charity to produce an information leaflet for people who suffer from either PTSD or Schizophrenia. Such conditions can have a significant impact on a person’s everyday life in terms of social interactions, relationships, employment and help-seeking behaviours. The ability to translate complex information/evidence into a format that can engage a non-academic audience is a skill that employers expect from graduates.
The main emphasis of your leaflet should focus on the cognitive and biological aspects of the condition. However, also imagine you are a (potential) service user and you are seeking out information on the chosen area. Consider the following:
- A contextualisation of the condition
- The nature of the condition (both cognitive and biological)
- Coping/compensatory strategies
- Where to find help/support
You will find examples of leaflets and expositions on the Moodle page (based on different conditions). During the semester we will focus on each condition, so the reading lists from those sessions will be helpful.
Written Exposition
The written exposition should take the form of an academic piece of writing which constitutes an explanation of the leaflet in terms of the analysis underlying your approach and demonstrates a critical understanding of the topic, from both a biological and cognitive standpoint, as well as associated issues.
1. Rationale for the leaflet
2. Issues considered e.g. relating to measurement/assessment, explanations etc. (biological and cognitive where appropriate)
3. An evaluation of the research on which the leaflet is based
4. Full list of references (APA style)
Expectations
The assessment for PSY5312 Mind and Brain is an information leaflet with an associated written exposition. This constitutes one piece of assessed work. The word limit for this piece of work is 4,000 words in total. The number of words allotted to the two elements (leaflet and written exposition) is a matter for your own judgment and will differ from one person to another, depending on your individual work. The overall mark achieved for this piece of work is based on the overall quality of both elements combined; (so one is not “more important” than the other).
How to Approach the Task
It is suggested that you focus on your written exposition first. Review the literature, critically evaluate it in terms of methodology and current controversies and then consider appropriate interventions and avenues for future research.
Match the structure of your written exposition to your leaflet. Consider what the most informative elements of your exposition are and summarise in the appropriate language in your leaflet. Consider the language you use in your leaflet as well as any images you choose. These should not be controversial in any way, or anxiety provoking for the (potential) service user.
Marking Criteria
The full marking criteria are in the module handbook, so make sure that you understand what is expected and think about how you can make sure that your work meets the criteria.
For the leaflet, markers will be assessing how the information is presented in terms of structure as well judgment on the selection of information that is included. The overall account of the topic and style used to present this information will also be considered.
For the written exposition, the overall structure of the exposition and research evidence presented will be assessed. Markers will also pay attention to the level of understanding of the topic area and critical evaluation of the research evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum length my assignment should be?
There is no minimum word count. However, you should aim for your assignment to be equivalent to 4,000 words. This does not include the references list. If you exceed the word limit, any work after 4,000 words will not be marked. Whilst you are not penalised for being under the word count, work that is substantially under the word count will be more limited in meeting the outcomes.
Can I use images in my leaflet?
You are encouraged to use images in your leaflet. You should choose your images carefully. Try not to use any anxiety inducing images (e.g., images of the brain), and where possible use images that add information to the leaflet.
Should I produce a folded leaflet?
You do not need to produce a folded leaflet.
What software should I use to design my leaflet?
Since the leaflet and written exposition need to be one document it is best if you use MS Word for your leaflet.
Should I include references in my leaflet?
No references should be included in your leaflet. Have one reference section at the end of your assignment that includes all references for your assignment, including any images used.
Can I focus on a specific sub-population for my assessment?
Yes, you can focus on sub-populations as long as they are specific to either the topic of PTSD or Schizophrenia. For example, you could focus on PTSD in veterans. If you choose to do this then all the evidence you use must be specific to this sub-population and not the general population
