Language, Mind and Brain (Q1202E)
Language, Mind and Brain
Module Q1202E
Module details for 2025/26.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 5
Module Outline
This module focuses on linguistic ability as a unique quality of humans. How does human language differ from animal communication systems? How is the human body, particularly the brain, adapted for language? Is language a special kind of cognition, or the product of general higher cognitive abilities? We further investigate how humans understand and produce speech in such a speedy and efficient way, using a variety of evidence to evaluate theories of how the mind is structured for speech. We'll ask questions like: How are words stored in the mind so that we can find them? Why are grammatical sentences like 'The horse raced past the barn fell' actually very difficult to comprehend? Why are words sometimes 'on the tip of the tongue'?
Module learning outcomes
Demonstrate some understanding of the nature of language as a cognitive phenomenon.
Appreciate the contribution of the various means by which language as a cognitive phenomenon is investigated: systematic observation, experimentation, computer modelling, and theoretical argument.
Develop critical skills and learn to interpret psycholinguistic data and arguments.
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 100.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Test | T2 Week 11 (1 hour) | 70.00% |
| Report | A2 Week 1 | 30.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 11111111111 |
| Spring Semester | Seminar | 1 hour | 11111111111 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Dr Lynne Cahill
Assess convenor, Convenor
/profiles/416
Prof Charlotte Taylor
Assess convenor
/profiles/329327
Prof M.Lynne Murphy
Assess convenor
/profiles/115259
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