PN4126 Social Cognitive Neuroscience

Academic year

2025 to 2026 Semester 2

Further information on which modules are specific to your programme.

Key module information

SCOTCAT credits

15

The Scottish Credit Accumulation and Transfer (SCOTCAT) system allows credits gained in Scotland to be transferred between institutions. The number of credits associated with a module gives an indication of the amount of learning effort required by the learner. European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) credits are half the value of SCOTCAT credits.

SCQF level

SCQF level 10

The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) provides an indication of the complexity of award qualifications and associated learning and operates on an ascending numeric scale from Levels 1-12 with SCQF Level 10 equating to a Scottish undergraduate Honours degree.

Planned timetable

To be confirmed

This information is given as indicative. Timetable may change at short notice depending on room availability.

Module coordinator

Dr E E Bradford

Dr E E Bradford
This information is given as indicative. Staff involved in a module may change at short notice depending on availability and circumstances.

Module Staff

Dr Lizzie Bradford

This information is given as indicative. Staff involved in a module may change at short notice depending on availability and circumstances.

Module description

This Social Cognitive Neuroscience module gives students the opportunity to explore the intersection of psychology and neuroscience, to deepen our understanding of how the brain supports social cognitive processes. Social cognitive processes underlie human interactions, including how they perceive, interpret, and respond to social information. In this module, we will explore the brain mechanisms underlying social cognition from a number of perspectives, including developmentally, social contexts (e.g., considering neuroscientific underpinnings of social decision making and morality), and clinically. Each week, students will do group presentations on assigned readings, and we will engage in whole class discussions on a variety of topics.

Assessment pattern

Coursework - 100%

Re-assessment

Coursework - 100%

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact

2 hour lectures (x 11 weeks) 1 hour Presentation Preparation Meeting (x 1 week)

Scheduled learning hours

22

The number of compulsory student:staff contact hours over the period of the module.

Guided independent study hours

124

The number of hours that students are expected to invest in independent study over the period of the module.

Intended learning outcomes

  • Demonstrate an understanding of current perspectives on Social Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Explore and critically evaluate a variety of neuroscientific and behavioural research methods
  • Reflect critically on recent research findings and how these relate to real-world outcomes
  • Enhance their communication and collaboration skills through group presentations and in-class discussions
  • Develop an understanding of how to apply interdisciplinary knowledge to real-world contexts and research