Higher cognitive functions

The course will present central theoretical and empirical issues related to higher cognitive functions with a specific focus on cognitive control functions.

One aim of the course is to examine different forms of higher cognitive functions by focusing on the relation among executive functioning, attention, memory and metacognition. The course will deal with individual and developmental differences in executive control functions. The course also aims at elucidating the interplay between emotional and cognitive control and their underlying neural mechanisms.

From the syllabus: These [cognitive] control functions, often referred to as executive functions, are assumed to mediate goal-directed behavior and involve planning, coordination and updating of complex intentions. Executive control functions are also central to most higher mental activities, including abstract thinking and problem solving, autobiographic memory, self-image, and social interactions. A variety of neuropsychiatric disorders are associated with impairments and deficits in these functions.

As a registered student on this course you will find detailed course instructions and communication in the learning platform Athena. Login with your university account.

This course will be given in the third quarter of the autumn semester.


Teaching Format

Compulsory elements may occur in the course. These are stated in the schedule and explained in more detail in the course instructions.

Detailed information can be found in the current syllabus and the course instructions for the course. A link to the syllabus can be found here on the page and the course instructions are posted on the course website in the university's learning platform no later than the start of the course.

Expected learning outcomes

The learning outcomes for this course are listed in the syllabus.

Assessment

Information about the forms of assessments for this course are listed in the syllabus and explained in detail in the course instructions.

You will find the dates for the examinations in the schedule.

The schedule will be available no later than one month before the start of the course. We do not recommend print-outs as changes can occur. At the start of the course, your department will advise where you can find your schedule during the course.


Note that the course literature can be changed up to two months before the start of the course.

In case the course literature list is missing, please check with the course leader before buying any expensive books etc.

Course reports are displayed for the three most recent course instances.


This course is offered as an elective course in the International two-year master’s program in psychology, 120 credits.

The course is also offered as a freestanding course on advanced level.






Course leader/examiner
Jonas Olofsson, jonas.olofsson@psychology.su.se

Registered students should primarily use our learning platform for teacher communication.

Contacts in Education

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