Cognitive processes are modulated by neurotransmitters, which do not convey specific information to a neuron but alter the way information it processes other inputs. In recent years, there has been a considerable increase in interest how cognition is shaped by neuromodulation and key roles of several transmitter systems were identified. This course is intended to review and discuss state-of-the-art developments in neuromodulation, covering issues like the roles of acetylcholine and serotonin in memory, of dopamine in learning and executive control, and of norepinephrine in visual attention.
Ways to manipulate neuromodulation experimentally to study the physiological bases of human cognition are also discussed; examples include manipulations of mood and affect, the induction of stress, and employment of drugs. Each course meeting aims to provide a deeper insight into the theoretical and methodological background of a current research interest. On the basis of seven seminar meetings (see PDF file for more informations), each student will prepare a research proposal, which consists of a critical review of the literature relevant to the chosen topic, and recommendations for future research.
Coordinator
Dr. L. Colzato
Room 2A41
Phone 071-5273407
E-mail: colzato@fsw.leidenuniv.nl
Aims
The course has as its main objective the introduction to the basic approaches to neuromodulation of cognition.
Literature
PDFs on Blackboard
Examination
Active participation, research proposal
From January 1th 2006, the Faculty of Social Sciences has instituted the Ephorus system to be used by instructors for the systematic detection of plagiarism in students’ written work. Please take a look at the Additional Rules and Regulations, section 6.
Requirement(s) for application or advice
Master students Applied Cognitive Psychology.
Education method(s)
Seminars
Enrollment
Introduction and enrollment for courses of the first semester will take place August 27th 2009. Introduction and enrollment for courses of the second semester will take place in January 2010. More information will be available at the website of the Institute 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 on Blackboard.leidenuniv.nl