Studiegids

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Cognitive Neuroscience of Language

Vak
2009-2010

This course is intended to review and discuss state-of-the-art developments in the cognitive neuroscience of human language processing. Topics include the representations and structures of language, as well as the cognitive architectures which underlie speaking, listening, reading and writing. In addition, the existing brain imaging literature on word and sentence processing will be critically reviewed, as well as contributions from research on brain lesions. finally, we discuss the prospects and problems of brain imaging techniques for the study of language.

On the basis of further reading assignments, each student will orally present a topic and stimulate, lead and organize further discussion in the group. On the basis of the seminar meetings, each student will prepare an essay, which consists of a critical review of the literature relevant to the chosen topic.

Coordinator

Prof.dr.N.O. Schiller
Room: 2A47
Tel: +31 (0)71 527 5686
E-mail: n.o.schiller@hum.leidenuniv.nl

Aims(s)

Student acquire in-dept knowledge of the results of behavioural and neuroscientific research on language processing and critically reflect on the use of brain-imaging mehods in this field.

Literature

Trevor Harley (2008) The Psychology of Language. From Data to Theory 3rd edition. Psychology Press/Taylor & Francis.

Examination

  • Oral presentation of an article (20%)

  • written exam (80%)

Requirement(s) for application or advice

BSc Psychology

Education method(s)

  • seminar

  • discussion of papers

Application

Introduction and enrollment for courses of the first semester will take place August 28th 2008. Introduction and enrollment for courses of the second semester will take place in January 2009. More information will be available at the website of the Department of Psychology.

NB: Exam and re-exam registration will take place via U-Twist, and will be open between a month and a week before the (re)exam. Students who don’t register, cannot participate in the (re)exam.

Blackboard

Information available on Blackboard.

Timetable

Location

  • Period: 3 February – 19 May, 2009

  • Day/time Wednesdays, 13.15 – 15.00

  • Location: Matthias de Vrieshof 4 (Witte Singel complex), Room 012

Lecturers

  • Prof. dr. Niels O. Schiller
    Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition
    Van Wijkplaats 4 (building 1166), room 104c
    Tel: 071 527 4171
    E-mail: n.o.schiller@hum.leidenuniv.nl

  • Dr. Wido La Heij
    Cognitive Psychology Unit, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences
    Wassenaarseweg 52, Pieter de la Court building, room 2B18
    Tel: 071 527 3636
    E-mail: laheij@fsw.leidenuniv.nl

  • Dr. Ingrid Christoffels
    Cognitive Psychology Unit, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences
    Wassenaarseweg 52, Pieter de la Court building, room 2B16
    Tel: 071 527 5689
    E-mail: ichristoffels@fsw.leidenuniv.nl