Module: Cognitive Psychology

Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title	Cognitive Psychology
Module Code	PSY1114
Faculty	Science & Health	School	Psychology
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	15

Description

This module introduces students to the scientific study of the mind by examining the core cognitive processes that underpin human thought and behaviour. Drawing on evidence from experimental psychology, cognitive neuroscience, and neuropsychology, students will explore how processes such as perception, attention, memory, language, reasoning, and decision-making are represented, explained, and investigated. The module emphasises the evaluation of cognitive theories and empirical evidence, and the application of cognitive principles to everyday behaviours and real-world contexts. By the end of this module, students will have developed an understanding of how the mind processes information and will be able to present and critically discuss evidence-supported accounts of cognitive functioning.

Learning Outcomes

1. Explain key theoretical frameworks and core assumptions underpinning the scientific study of cognition, including the relationships between cognitive psychology, cognitive neuroscience, and neuropsychology.
2. Analyse and compare major models and theories across core cognitive domains such as perception, attention, memory, language, reasoning, and decision-making.
3. Critically evaluate experimental, neuroscientific, and neuropsychological evidence used to test cognitive models, assessing the strengths, limitations, and explanatory power of competing accounts.
4. Apply cognitive theories and research findings to interpret everyday behaviour, learning, communication, decision-making, and performance in real-world contexts.
5. Explain and evaluate how cognitive impairments and disruptions influence behaviour and functioning, drawing on evidence from neuropsychological and applied research.

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full time hours per semester
Lecture	18	Synchronous online classes
Online activity	60	Student-Staff and Student-Student interaction through online discussion forums and other media
Independent Study	297	Using self-directed learning resources, textbooks and other resources
Total Workload: 375

Section Breakdown
CRN	12100	Part of Term	Semester 1 & 2
Coursework	100%	Examination Weight	0%
Grade Scale	40PASS	Pass Both Elements	N
Resit Category	RC1	Best Mark	N
Module Co-ordinator	Catherine Moran	Module Teacher

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment Breakdown

Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; RC1: A resit is available for both^* components of the module. RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module. RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element. ^* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Foundations of cognitive psychology

Cognitive neuroscience and neuropsychology

Perception and object recognition

Attention and cognitive control

Memory systems and processes

Memory theories and failures

Mental imagery and cognitive maps

Language: Structure and acquisition

Reading, comprehension, and language disorders

Reasoning, judgement, and decision-making

Problem-solving and creativity

Emotion, social cognition, and theory of mind

Consciousness and emerging topics

Indicative Reading List

Books:
None

Articles:
None

Other Resources

None