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School of Psychology

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

TypeTimingWeighting
Coursework45.00%
Coursework components. Weighted as shown below.
ExerciseT1 Week 12 22.00%
Poster PresentationT1 Week 8 22.00%
TestT1 Week 7 56.00%
Research Plan (2500 words)Semester 1 Assessment Week 1 Wed 16:0055.00%
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.

TermMethodDurationWeek pattern
Autumn SemesterLecture1 hour111111111111
Autumn SemesterWorkshop2 hours010000100000
Autumn SemesterSeminar1 hour010101000101
Autumn SemesterSeminar2 hours000000010000

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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