PY0651 - Hormones and Behaviour

On this module you will learn through a combination of lectures, in-class activities and tutorials, along with independent study.

You will attend a series of two-hour interactive lectures to learn about the main areas in which endocrinology can be applied to the study of behaviour. These lectures will provide the basic framework for syllabus topics. The interactive elements will involve discussion of the application of particular topic areas introduced in the taught sessions and discussion of video materials relevant to the course topics.
The aim of the interactive lectures is to consolidate information learnt through independent reading and to encourage you to apply your knowledge in a problem-based learning situation. You will have the opportunity for group discussion, enabling you to communicate your ideas and findings in a group setting, showing sensitivity to the perspectives of others. Effective oral and visual communication skills will be developed through such activities.

Directed study will be encouraged through the provision of reading lists, which will serve as a basis for further, independent study. This will be further encouraged through the provision of study questions and topics. Independent learning skills and reflection on the role and value of those skills will prepare you for career development learning.

Together, the learning strategies of lectures, workshops, directed and independent study aim to develop conceptual knowledge of the topic area and illustrate the range of paradigms and methods that can be used to investigate it. Tutorials will provide an opportunity for you to discuss issues related to the module with a member of staff.

The module tutor will support you by making a variety of resources linked to the taught elements and assessments available on the eLearning Portal (e.g. PowerPoint slides, handouts, reading lists, directed assessment related-activities) along with links to websites to encourage further exploration of behavioural endocrinology. A discussion board on the eLearning 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.

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.

Knowledge & Understanding:
• MK1: You will be able to demonstrate conceptual knowledge of behavioural endocrinology by critically discussing relevant theory, recent research and methodological approaches

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• MIP1: You will be able to demonstrate key skills associated with behavioural endocrinology, including project management and effective communication skills and strategies
• MIP2: You will take charge of own career development learning, through critical self-evaluation and reflection on the relevance of the module for career enhancement and future learning. These skills are useful for your future employability.

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
• MPV1: You will develop you ability to work collaboratively to find creative solutions in a problem-based learning environment, successfully communicating these solutions using the most appropriate formats and media, and in doing so enhance your Northumbria Psychology graduate attributes.

Formative Assessment
Formative assessments will comprise interim presentations of ideas, and group activities related to the final assessment. These will be evaluated by peers, and through discussion with the module tutor. (MK1, MIP1, MPV1)

Summative Assessment
The main assessment consists of one piece of individual written work (3500 words) worth 90% of the module mark. Students will answer an essay question related to a key topic within behavioural endocrinology (MK1; 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 assessments, the module tutor will provide immediate verbal feedback on top of peer feedback provided through discussion in group activities.

For the summative report, feedback will be provided on the electronic submission in the form of a level-specific rubric. Additional written comments will be provided that identify a minimum of one strength, one weakness and one area for improvement.

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

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Through lectures and interactive activities, you will examine the role of the endocrine system in behaviour and cognition in animals and humans. You will specifically aim to investigate how the key hormones can influence behaviour and cognition via their neurological/physiological effects. You will draw on experimental animal evidence, clinical case studies, correlational studies and supplementation studies in both children and adults. The module is assessed in two parts: 1) an essay related to a key topic within behavioural endocrinology 2) A reflective passage which evaluates the skills you have gained through the module and how these may be applied to your degree pathway and wider career.