PSYC1119 Cognitive Psychology and Neuroscience Level 7 Coursework Assessment Guidance

Aims and learning outcomes  

This piece of coursework is designed to assess the ability to integrate and evaluate material relating to a topic of  interest within cognitive psychology and neuroscience.  

The aims are to: 

1. Critically evaluate theories and research in cognitive psychology and neuroscience

2. Develop your practical skills by using a range of high-quality sources to provide empirical support  for arguments you make  

3. Develop effective writing and communication skills by constructing a well-reasoned essay that  builds on your formative assessment and the feedback received  

Rationale for assessment  

Student question-authoring can be a valuable learning tool and its main benefits are a deeper exploration and creative use of knowledge of the module content, and an enhanced awareness of the learning process. It is more challenging to have to create your own assessment task, as this requires far more than simply knowing and remembering facts. 

This method of assessment contrasts with traditional methods. It challenges passive learning and fosters an active and more constructivist learning environment that promotes inquiry-based active learning and critical thinking. It also reduces pressure and anxiety. 

Guidelines for the Assessment  

 Your task is to conduct a literature review on a topic of interest in cognitive psychology and neuroscience and  evaluate the research landscape. You are free to choose a topic of your interest, but it must be related to 

module content. You will also formulate a title for your work, ensuring that it accurately represents your chosen topic and the content included in your essay. Therefore, it is very important to come up with the right topic that will allow you to meet all the learning outcomes of the module.

Word count: 3000 words (± 10%) 

You should read extensively on the topic you are reviewing, primarily recent journal articles. You are advised to  structure your report in the following way:  

• A title (of your choosing) that accurately reflects your chosen topic and the content included in your  essay 

• An introduction that provides an outline or a ‘road map’ of your essay 

• A critical review of theories/concepts and research evidence relating to your topic, including an  evaluation and discussion of the key themes related to your chosen topic, in light of recent research  • Implications for theory, research and practice  

• A conclusion  

• Reference list (the expectation at Level 7 is 15-20 references or more)