200090 SE Vertiefungsseminar: Geist und Gehirn (alle Schwerpunkte) (2021S)

The course will provide an overview of current state-of-the-art research on “the neural codes of cognition”, describing how different aspects of lower- and higher-level cognition are neuronally implemented. We will gradually move from research on (visual) perception towards findings describing how learning, memory, spatial cognition, as well as decision making are implemented in the brain.

The course is structured in two parts:

Part I – Foundations: We will begin with a general overview of the course, including introductory sessions on cognitive neuroscience and neuroimaging methods. This part spans across the sessions 1-3, before the Easter break.

Part II – Specific topics: From session 4 onwards, we will focus on specific topics in cognitive neuroscience, ranging from lower- to higher-level cognition. Each of these sessions will include 2 brief student presentations (~5 min presentation, ~10 min discussion, total 15 min) and an overview of the respective topic where I will highlight fundamental papers + recent work that significantly advanced the field. There will be opportunity for Q&A and discussions, and lectures might be interspersed with quick group assignments. We will also have 1-2 guest lectures on neural oscillations and animal research using direct electrophysiological recordings.

We will wrap-up the course in our final session (14), followed by a qualitative and quantitative course evaluation.

The aims of this course are three-fold: First, students should gain a general understanding of important topics in cognitive neuroscience and an overview of current trends in the field. Second, students should acquire the ability to read, comprehend, and critically assess research on this topic. Third, this course aims to inspire students to think about new research projects, thereby specifically targeting students interested in writing their master thesis in this domain.

Lectures will provide a basic overview and point students towards *required readings*, as well as additional (non-mandatory) literature for a more in-depth understanding of the topics. External video links will provide a diversity of views on the subject matter. Students are asked to actively participate in discussions and to ask questions. Lectures will include ample space for open discussions, Q&A, as well as group assignments that will be given throughout the course (e.g., pro/contra-debate groups, blitz presentations followed by panel discussions). Each student is required to present a paper (~5 min presentation, ~10 min discussion).