Memory

Academic year 2011-12

Date last modified

23-4-2012 1:29

Period

Period 2

Startdate:

31-Oct-11

Enddate:

23-Dec-11

Code

SSC2025

ECTS credits

5.0

Organisational unit

University College Maastricht

Coordinator

M.A.J.F. Heins

Description

Numerous qualitatively different forms of memory are needed to enable the wide range of cognitive functions that we continuously and effortlessly perform. The recollection of an experience from our youth imposes different demands on our cognitive system than finding our bicycle in a bike rack or finding the right word while speaking. In this course, the emphasis is placed on the role of memory in the processing of information. Memory is explained using cognitive as well as neurobiological theories; both perspectives will receive much attention during the course. The course introduces the cognitive model of Working Memory by Alan Baddeley, which is contrasted to other cognitive models. In low-level neurobiology, memory is explained through long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD), research on which Prof. Eric Kandel received the Nobel price in 2000. Recent findings on higher-order brain function of memory will also be discussed. As will be seen, neurobiological insights sometimes fit quite well with the cognitive theories and sometimes they actually counter the standard models. Students will discuss several methodological issues regarding research on memory.

Goals

• To help students acquire knowledge of recent theories in the field of working memory, long-term memory, implicit and explicit memory, semantic and declarative. • To provide knowledge of the principles of memory acquisition and forgetfulness reconstructive processes and false memories. • To provide knowledge about the biological basis of priming, memory acquisition memory sotrage and retrieval. • To familiarize students with brain anatomy (basic, and as far as relevant to understand memory). • To provide experience with common experimental memory paradigms, where applicable.

Instruction language

Prerequisites

SSC1005 Introduction to Psychology

Recommended literature

• Baddely, A., Eysenck, M.W., & Anderson, M.C., (2009). Memory. Sussex, UK: Psychology Press.

Teaching methods

PBL
PRESENTATION(S)
LECTURE(S)
ASSIGNMENT(S)
PAPER(S)

Assessment methods

FINAL PAPER
ATTENDANCE
PARTICIPATION
WRITTEN EXAM
ORAL EXAM
TAKE HOME EXAM

Key words