University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 10

ECTS credits : 5

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: Lectures: pre-recorded and released on Wednesday 12pm (noon) the week before each workshop; Workshops: one of Tuesdays 9.30-11am, 2-3:30pm, 3:30-5pm. Tutorials: Wednesdays 1-2pm.(Module runs in weeks 7 - 11 only)

The aim of this module is to develop an understanding of visual perception and its functions. Stress will be laid on the integration of findings from physiology, neuropsychology, anatomy, and psychophysics. Topic areas covered will include theories of human vision and their application to understanding our ability to perceive distinct visual properties, for example the shape, size, location and identity of objects. Emphasis will be placed on the development of the skill of critical evaluation of evidence and theory, with particular focus on awareness of the latest issues in the discipline.

Relationship to other modules

Anti-requisite(s): You cannot take this module if you take PS5238

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 1 x 2-hour lecture and 1 x practical/workshop class of up to 3 hours. Additionally 5 x 1-hour tutorials across the semester.

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%


Re-assessment: 100% Coursework; Resubmission of failed components only

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr J M Ales
Module teaching staff: Dr Justin Ales
Module coordinator email jma23@st-andrews.ac.uk

Intended learning outcomes

• understand how the early visual system processes information
• design experiments to test visual function
• understand the basics of how the visual system develops
• understand the challenges the brain faces in perceiving the world correctly