Learning and cognitive processes in different species.
In this paper, we will compare the ability of different animal species to remember, communicate, form concepts, recognise themselves in a mirror, possess a theory of mind and engage in episodic memory, planning and mental time travel. The paper is taught as a critical-thinking course. You will be taught to challenge dogma and think laterally by reading and criticising original pieces of scientific work.
| Paper title | Comparative Cognition |
|---|---|
| Paper code | PSYC319 |
| Subject | Psychology |
| EFTS | 0.15 |
| Points | 18 points |
| Teaching period | Not offered in 2023 (On campus) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees (NZD) | $1,141.35 |
| International Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website. |
- Prerequisite
- PSYC 210 and PSYC 211 and PSYC 212
- Schedule C
- Arts and Music, Science
- Notes
- For students with a major or minor in Neuroscience the prerequisite is PSYC211.
- Eligibility
With departmental approval, a student who has achieved a grade of at least B+ in each of PSYC 210 and 212 may take no more than one of PSYC 313-328 concurrently with PSYC 211.
With departmental approval, a student who has achieved a grade of at least B+ in PSYC 211 may take no more than one of PSYC 313-328 concurrently with PSYC 210 and 212.
- Contact
- More information link
- View more information on the Department of Psychology's website
- Teaching staff
- Professor Mike Colombo
- Paper Structure
- A large component of the class centres on class discussion of current topics in comparative
animal cognition, such as:
- Conceptual behaviour
- Numerical competence
- Theory of mind
- Self-recognition
- Memory
- Mental time travel
50% of the final grade will be based on internal assessments and 50% will be from the final exam. - Teaching Arrangements
- One 50-minute and one 2-hour lecture per week.
- Textbooks
Textbooks are not required for this paper.
Original articles will be made available.
- Graduate Attributes Emphasised
- Lifelong learning, Scholarship, Communication, Critical thinking.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes. - Learning Outcomes
- Students will be presented with published findings and asked to challenge the design and interpretation of the data. Learning outcomes focus on the development of critical thinking and clear communication skills.
