Psychology

Comparative Psychology: The Psychology of Animal Behaviour

Module code: C8871
Level 6
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture
Assessment modes: Coursework

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.

Module learning outcomes

• Critically evaluate claims of animal cognitive competency
• Understand the history of the discipline of comparative psychology
• Know how to interrogate the scientific literature in comparative psychology
• Confidently interpret the primary literature in comparative psychology