Psychology of learning 

This course will provide students with a thorough background in the psychology of learning. In addition to the course CNS of Memory, this course will focus on the behavioural processes underlying the acquisition of new knowledge in animal and man. Its aim is to provide a multidisciplinary view, integrating theories from behavioural psychology, neurobiology and neuropsychology. Furthermore, the application of learning paradigms in clinical and cognitive research will be discussed.

Neurobiological aspects. The underlying neurobiological mechanisms will be highlighted using electrophysiological and functional neuroimaging methods, in addition to genetic and pharmacological manipulations, focusing on the role of the hippocampal memory system, extra-hippocampal learning processes and neural plasticity in general.

Clinical aspects and application. Using cognitive neuropsychological evidence from brain-lesioned patients, among others, the distinction between explicit and implicit learning in man will be discussed, focusing on the functional dissociation between the two as well as on the underlying brain systems that are implicated. Furthermore, the course will focus on the clinical application: learning and adaption is a central topic within cognitive rehabilitation.

• Lecture notes
• Relevant chapters from handbooks / key papers

Lectures and student assignments. Student assignments will be made available on a special course-site on the Internet, via Blackboard , the digital learning environment of the Radboud University Nijmegen.

Written exam
Tuesday, July 10, 2012, 10.45-12.30

via STUDENT PORTAL untill 5 working days before the start of the course
Note this course is for CNS students only. Non-CNS students can contact Yvonne Schouten () or Arno Koning ().