University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 2

Availability restrictions: Available only to students in the second year of the Honours Programme

Planned timetable: Lectures: Wednesdays 11-1

The aim of the module is to develop an advanced understanding of the psychological processes involved in visual perception. The module extends basic knowledge of visual processing, from perceptual psychology and visual neuroscience, to how vision is used to interpret our complex world and to interact with it. We will consider the purpose and processes involved in using vision along two broad themes: recognising and interpreting the world via perception, and using vision to control our own actions in the world. The module will cover selected topics that illustrate the extraordinary range of problems our perceptual systems solve in the real world, including topics from: active vision (how do our visual systems allow us to function fast enough to drive a car, play fast-action sports), camouflage and search (how do we find and recognise objects in our cluttered world), material perception (how do we perceive things as dirty, smooth, shiny, patterned).

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass PN2002 and pass PN3037

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2-hour seminars plus office hour.

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 100% Coursework


Re-assessment: 100% Coursework (resubmission of failed components)

Personnel

Module coordinator: Professor J Harris
Module teaching staff: Prof J Harris
Module coordinator email jh81@st-andrews.ac.uk

Intended learning outcomes

• Demonstrate an understanding of how the psychological processes underlying vision are applied to real world problems
• Demonstrate a critical appreciation of key research on vision, and how to apply the knowledge from the research to real-life issues
• Communicate acquired knowledge effectively, both orally and in writing
• Effectively communicate to both general and scientific audiences
• Develop the practical skills of designing an experiment
• Think creatively and independently, manage time and work effectively in a team