CGSC 130: How to Build a Mind: An Introduction to Cognitive Science

Recently, psychologists, linguists, philosophers, biologists, and computer scientists have begun to share the insights their differing perspectives bring to certain issues involving perception, imagery, knowledge representation, thinking and consciousness. This class will give students a broad introduction to the history and practice of this multidisciplinary approach. 6; Social Sciences; not offered 2009-2010

CGSC 232: Cognitive Processes

Cross-listed with PSYC.232. An introduction to the study of mental activity. Topics include attention, pattern recognition and perception, memory, concept formation, categorization, and cognitive development. Some attention to gender and individual differences in cognition, as well as cultural settings for cognitive activities. Prerequisite: Psychology 110 or permission of the instructor. Corequisite: Cognitive Sciences 233. 6; Social Sciences; offered Winter 2010 -- K. Galotti

CGSC 233: Laboratory Research Methods in Cognitive Science

Cross-listed with PSYC.233. Students will participate in the replication and planning of empirical studies, collecting and analyzing data relevant to major cognitive phenomena. Prerequisite: Psychology 110 or permission of the instructor. Corequisite: Psychology 232. 2; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement; offered Winter 2010 -- K. Galotti

CGSC 236: Thinking, Reasoning and Decision-Making

An examination of the way people think and reason, both when given formal laboratory tasks and when facing problems and decisions of everyday life. Students consider their own reasoning and decision-making through course exercises. Topics covered include: models of formal reasoning, decision-making, heuristics and biases in thinking and problem-solving, the development of reasoning ability, moral reasoning, improving thinking, problem-solving and reasoning skills. Prerequisite: Psychology 110 or consent of the instructor. 6; Social Sciences; not offered 2009-2010

CGSC 380: Seminar in Developmental Psychology: Cognitive Development During the Preschool Years

We will consider the development of memory, perception, and attention, as well as concepts and categorization, problem-solving and thinking, during the years from two to six. We will focus particularly on how these developments are reflected in children's spontaneous behavior and play. Course requirements will include readings, class discussions, short papers, a final project, and regular observation of preschoolers or kindergarteners. Prerequisites: Psychology 250 or Educational Studies 234 or permission of the instructor. 6; not offered 2009-2010

CGSC 385: Cognitive Development in Middle Childhood

We will consider the development of memory, perception, and attention, as well as concepts and categorization, problem-solving and thinking, during the years from six to 11. We will focus particularly on how these developments are reflected in children's academic learning and social relationships. Course requirements will include readings, class discussions, short papers, a final project, and regular observation of school-aged children. Prerequisite: Psychology 250 or Educational Studies 234 or permission of instructor. 6; Social Sciences; not offered 2009-2010

CGSC 386: Adolescent Cognitive Development: Developing an Identity and Life Plans

An examination of recent literature on how adolescents develop their value system, explore their goals, begin to make life-framing decision, establish new relationships, and discover answers to the question "Who am I?" Course readings will involve primary literature, and the course is discussion-based. Prerequisite: Psychology 250, Educational Studies 234 or consent of the instructor. 6; Social Sciences; offered Fall 2009 -- K. Galotti

CGSC 396: Directed Research in Cognitive Studies

Senior majors in cognitive studies will work with the director to develop a thesis proposal for their comps project. Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor. 3; Does not fulfill a distribution requirement; offered Fall 2009 -- R. Elveton, K. Galotti