Comparative Psychology: The Psychology of Animal Behaviour (C8871)

15 credits, Level 6

Spring teaching

Comparative psychology is the study of animal learning and perception. It is historically more concerned with learned behaviour, but today there is considerable cross-talk between ethology and comparative psychology.

You will explore the history of comparative psychology and a number of topics of historical or contemporary significance, including:

  • imitation
  • self-recognition
  • navigation of space
  • communication,
  • memory
  • empathy.

By the end of the module, you will be expected to find and critically evaluate the scientific literature in this area.

Knoweldge of psychobiology, animal behaviour or related areas will be helpful, but not necessary.

Teaching

100%: Lecture

Assessment

100%: Coursework (Report)

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 150 hours of work. This breaks down into about 22 hours of contact time and about 128 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2021/22. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.

Courses

This module is offered on the following courses: