Theoretical Perspectives in Cognitive Science, 7.5 Credits

Contents

The course provides students with an opportunity to deepen their knowledge of some of the cognitive science basic theoretical issues or problems, and to begin to develop their own position or opinion on them. The course is organised through seminars. Prior to each seminar, the students study a number of scientific articles, with the support of a book on general theoretical issues and problems in cognitive science. During the seminars, a number of shared issues that are based on this literature are then discussed in groups. The course also includes writing a short essay in which the field of study is selected from a given list of topics, directly related to the literature, in consultation with teachers.

Expected learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding
After completing the course, the student should be able to:

• (FSR 1) independently familiarize themselves in selected cognitive science issues and with their own formulations account for different starting points, theories and methodologies.

Competence and skills
After completing the course, the student should be able to:

• (FSR 2) follow, critically analyze and critically compare different arguments and positions, in selected cognitive science issues,
• (FSR 3) communicate and argue with others at a comparable level of knowledge in selected cognitive science issues,
• (FSR 4) in written form, develop and articulate their own well-founded position in selected cognitive science issues.

Required Knowledge

At least 120 ECTS within a study programme, including 45 ECTS in Computing Science, Informatics, or Cognitive Science. At least 15 ECTS in Cognitive Science. Proficiency in English equivalent to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies.

Form of instruction

Teaching is mainly in the form of seminars in small groups with compulsory attendance and requirements of active participation, with some supplementation of clarification or preparatory classes, and in connection with essay writing. In addition to scheduled activities individual work with the material is required to a high degree.

The literature and language during lectures and seminar supervision are normally in English.

Examination modes

The course is examined through active participation in the seminars and an essay that critically discusses the course matter, refer the relevant literature and reports the author's position and the position adequately. In addition, the course is also assed by a written exam which ensures that the student has acquired the necessary breadth of knowledge regarding the chosen issue. The written exam is graded Fail (U) or pass (G).

On the whole course the grades Fail (U), Pass (G), or Pass with Distinction (VG) is given. To pass the course, all examinations and mandatory assignments must be approved. The final grade of the course is a summary assessment of the results and decided only after all mandatory parts are passed.

Adapted examination
The examiner can decide to deviate from the specified forms of examination. Individual adaptation of the examination shall be considered based on the needs of the student. The examination is adapted within the constraints of the expected learning outcomes. A student that needs adapted examination shall no later than 10 days before the examination request adaptation from the Department of Computing Science. The examiner makes a decision of adapted examination and the student is notified.

Other regulations

This course may not be used towards a degree, in whole or in part, simultaneously with another course of similar content. If in doubt, consult the student counselors at the Department of Computing Science and / or program director of your program.
 

If the syllabus has expired or the course has been discontinued, a student who at some point registered for the course is guaranteed at least three examinations (including the regular examination) according to this syllabus for a maximum period of two years from the syllabus expiring or the course being discontinued.