PY0544 - Technology for Experiments

What will I learn on this module?

On this module you will learn knowledge and skills to apply technology in order to design experiments, collect data through
measurements and analyse the collected data. You will learn about the measurement process and the underlying physics and technology used during
measurements so that you will understand the capabilities and limitations of the technology when you design experiments. You will also learn
about factors which can affect measurements and measurement equipment, aspects such as noise, sensors, amplification, filtering and data storage. The interfacing between various pieces of equipment will also be addressed with treatment of the various interconnection options.

You will learn how to use specific equipment such as eye trackers, software for generating and analysing measurements and programming of experiments using cognitive testing packages and programming in open source software for data acquisition and analyses.

How will I learn on this module?

You will learn through lectures and practical laboratory workshops. You will learn content knowledge during lectures and during workshops you will
discuss topics/concepts in more depth and perform group based tasks to help consolidate this knowledge. In workshops you will learn how to use specific equipment and software and programming packages.

You will learn in our specialised labs using state-of-the-art equipment, software and technology.

You will be expected to undertake independent study and reading lists will be provided to guide your reading. You will also be provided with study questions and topics for you to complete independently. This independent learning of skills and your reflection on the role and value of those skills will prepare you for career development learning. Tutorials will be available to provide you with an opportunity for you to discuss issues related to the module with a member of staff.

Together, the learning from lectures, activities, directed and independent study will develop a breadth and depth of knowledge of the topic areas and its application in experimental settings.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

You will be supported academically by your module tutor who will make a variety of resources linked to the lectures series, workshops and assessments available on the eLearning Portal (e.g. powerpoint slides, activity handouts, revision tasks, reading lists, mock exam paper) along with links to websites to encourage further exploration of technology and its applications for experimental studies. A discussion board on the e-learning portal will be available for students to pose and respond to questions among peers and to module tutors. This enhances collegiality and also means that support is available to all students. Tutorials can provide an opportunity for students to discuss issues related to the module with a member of staff.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:
• MK1 You will be expected to demonstrate an understanding of how to perform cognitive testing measurements and data analysis.
• MK2 You will be able to plan, integrate, assess and evaluate the options to perform measurement, necessary equipment and software resources needed for a measurement based study.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• MIP1 You will develop your employability skills by being able to develop software to present stimuli and collect responses, extract and analyse collected data.
• MIP2: You will take charge of your own career development learning, through critical self-evaluation and reflection on the relevance of the module for

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
• MPV1: You will develop the characteristics of a Northumbria Psychology Graduate by being able to communicate your methods for a professional audience.

How will I be assessed?

Formative Assessment
Formative verbal feedback on learning will be given during the lab workshops as you complete tasks which will directly relate to completion of the assessment e.g. designing and
performing laboratory measurements for psychological research (MK1, MK2, MIP1,MIP2 MPV1)

Summative Assessment
The main assessment for this module will be a assignment (90%). The first part of this will require you to plan a multi-modal cognitive test of presenting stimuli, collecting participant responses such as key presses and physiological measurements and recording this data. You will also be asked to develop software which will extract the data recorded in the first part of the assignment and analyse it (MK1, MK2, MIP1, MPV1)

The second assessment is a self-reflective account in which you will be asked to consider how this module has impacted on your employability and future career (MIP2). This will be worth 10% of the module mark (500 words)

Feedback
Formative feedback will be given when you perform practical tasks which will be assessed and verbal and demonstrative feedback will be given during these tasks. For the
summative assessment appropriately constructed and detailed written feedback for each student, identifying strengths, areas where improvements could have been made and the extent to which each learning outcome has been met. Generic feedback on cohort performance will also be provided to all students to enable them to see how they performed in relation to the group.

You will be required to arrange a tutorial with your personal guidance tutor for formal feedback on your reflection.

Pre-requisite(s)

None

Co-requisite(s)

None

Module abstract

This module will equip you with an understanding of the measurement process, factors which affect measurements, measurement equipment and software for generating and analysing measurements. You will learn by way of interactive lectures, practical demonstrations and tasks, group exercises and discussion , You will be assessed by an assignment which requires you plan a multi-modal cognitive test of presenting stimuli, collect participant responses such as key presses and physiological measurements and record this data. You will also be asked to develop software which will extract the data recorded in the first part of the assignment and analyse it. You will be asked to write a reflection on relevance of the module for career enhancement and future learning.

Course info

UCAS Code C800

Credits 20

Level of Study Undergraduate

Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with optional study abroad year

Department Psychology

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start September 2025

Fee Information

Module Information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing. 

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.  

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

 

Useful Links

Find out about our distinctive approach at 
www.northumbria.ac.uk/exp

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