Individual Differences in Attention (C8895)
Attention: An individual differences perspective
Module C8895
Module details for 2012/13.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 6
Module Outline
This module offers students an overview of attention research and theory, from an individual differences perceptive. Students will learn about a wide range of factors that can influence the ability to focus and maintain attention. Topics covered may include:
- The relationship betweeen IQ, cognitive control and attention
- Attentional effects of individual differences in perception
- Age-related changes in attention
- Mind wandering
- Attentional biases associated with depression, addiction and anxiety
- Clinical syndromes associated with attention problems (e.g. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).
The module will also cover key measures and methods used, and provide training in the critical analysis of research studies in the field.
Full Module Description
This module offers students an overview of attention research and theory, from an individual differences perceptive. Students will learn about a wide range of factors that can influence the ability to focus and maintain attention. Topics covered may include:
- The relationship betweeen IQ, cognitive control and attention
- Attentional effects of individual differences in perception
- Age-related changes in attention
- Mind wandering
- Attentional biases associated with depression, addiction and anxiety
- Clinical syndromes associated with attention problems (e.g. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).
The module will also cover key measures and methods used, and provide training in the critical analysis of research studies in the field.
Module learning outcomes
Demonstrate ability to identify and explain a wide range of factors underlying individual differences in attention
Demonstrate ability to critically evaluate the design and methodology of research studies in this field
Apply the above knowledge and skills to identifying specific directions for future research in this field
Demonstrate effective communication of knowledge in this field
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 45.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Exercise | T1 Week 12 | 22.00% |
| Poster Presentation | T1 Week 8 | 22.00% |
| Test | T1 Week 7 | 56.00% |
| Research Plan (2500 words) | Semester 1 Assessment Week 1 Wed 16:00 | 55.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 111111111111 |
| Autumn Semester | Workshop | 2 hours | 010000100000 |
| Autumn Semester | Seminar | 1 hour | 010101000101 |
| Autumn Semester | Seminar | 2 hours | 000000010000 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Dr Sophie Forster
Convenor, Assess convenor
/profiles/316091
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The University reserves the right to make changes to the contents or methods of delivery of, or to discontinue, merge or combine modules, if such action is reasonably considered necessary by the University. If there are not sufficient student numbers to make a module viable, the University reserves the right to cancel such a module. If the University withdraws or discontinues a module, it will use its reasonable endeavours to provide a suitable alternative module.

