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School of Psychology

Behavioural Genetics (C8896)

Behavioural Genetics

Module C8896

Module details for 2012/13.

15 credits

FHEQ Level 6

Module Outline

Some of the most important discoveries about behaviour that have been made in the recent years involve genetics. There is increasing recognition of the role of genetic factors in normal and abnormal behaviour. The aim of this module is to introduce you to behavioural genetics, the fast-moving and highly interdisciplinary field. You will learn key principles as well as historical aspects of behavioural genetics. More recent developments in this field will also be explored focusing on a broad range of behavioural phenotypes. For example, you will have the opportunity to learn about developmental psychopathology from behavioural genetics perspective. Ethical issues related to genetic investigations of human and animal behaviour will be discussed. There will also be an opportunity to develop some basic skills in analysing genetic data.

Full Module Description

Some of the most important discoveries about behaviour that have been made in the recent years involve genetics. There is increasing recognition of the role of genetic factors in normal and abnormal behaviour. The aim of this module is to introduce you to behavioural genetics, the fast-moving and highly interdisciplinary field. You will learn key principles as well as historical aspects of behavioural genetics. More recent developments in this field will also be explored focusing on a broad range of behavioural phenotypes. For example, you will have the opportunity to learn about developmental psychopathology from behavioural genetics perspective. Ethical issues related to genetic investigations of human and animal behaviour will be discussed. There will also be an opportunity to develop some basic skills in analysing genetic data.

Module learning outcomes

Appreciate the role of behavioural genetics research in understanding aetiology of complex behavioural traits and disorders

Demonstrate familiarity with different methods of behavioural genetics research (e.g., twin, adoption, association, etc) and with contemporary behavioural genetic investigations

Discuss ethical issues of behavioural genetic investigations using human and animal subjects

Communicate knowledge of the key concepts and developments in behavioural genetics both orally and in written form

TypeTimingWeighting
Coursework30.00%
Coursework components. Weighted as shown below.
BlogT2 Week 13 33.00%
Group PresentationT2 Week 10 (20 minutes)67.00%
Unseen ExaminationSemester 2 Assessment70.00%
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
Spring SemesterLecture1 hour111111111111
Spring SemesterWorkshop2 hours001010101010

How to read the week pattern

The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.

Dr Darya Gaysina

Assess convenor, Convenor
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