Students
COGS705 – Advanced Principles of Cognitive Science: Language and Reading
2017 – S2 Day
General Information
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| Unit convenor and teaching staff |
Unit convenor and teaching staff
Convener & Lecturer
Eva Marinus
Contact via Email
Lecturer
Anne Castles
Contact via Email
Lecturer
Lyndsey Nickels
Contact via Email
Bianca De Wit
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|---|---|
| Credit points |
Credit points
4
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| Prerequisites |
Prerequisites
Admission to MRes
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| Corequisites |
Corequisites
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| Co-badged status |
Co-badged status
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| Unit description |
Unit description
This unit forms part of a four-unit core sequence covering a range of foundational and cutting-edge research topics in cognitive science, with an emphasis on active research programs at MQ. This team-taught unit is made up of a selection of 3-4 topic modules, led by experts specialising in these fields. Topics to be covered may include but are not limited to: the cognitive science and cognitive neuropsychology of reading and language, with a particular focus on reading development, language production, developmental and acquired dyslexia, and acquired aphasia.
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Important Academic Dates
Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:
- Advanced knowledge about theories of spoken language production, reading and reading development
- Ability to read an empirical paper and identify its theoretical strengths, weaknesses and relevance
- Ability to critically evaluate scientific methods, data and claims
- Ability to identify and discuss relevant content of scientific papers and book chapters in own words
- Ability to formulate a clear research question that follows up/builds upon a published study
- Ability to present research to a variety of audiences in a clear and engaging way
General Assessment Information
We expect 100% attendance but if there are any issues, please send us an email in advance of the class to let us know. Students need to read the literature thoroughly to enable a useful discussion.
Requirement to pass the unit
To pass the unit, the average mark across the three assessments needs to be 50% or higher. It is not a requirement to score a mark of 50% or higher for every assignment. It is, however, expected that all three assessments are attempted and submitted online.
Late Penalties
Late submission of an assignment will attract a penalty of 10% of the maximum mark for every day that the assignment is late (including weekend days). For example, if the assignment is worth 40 marks and your assignment is submitted 2 days late, a penalty of 2x10%x40 = 8 marks will be applied and subtracted from the awarded mark for the assignment. Work submitted more than 7 days after the submission deadline will not be marked and will receive a mark of 0. Please note that it is the student’s responsibility to notify the University of a disruption to their studies and that requests for extensions for assignments must be made via the University’s Ask MQ System (as outlined in the Disruption to Studies Policy).
Assessment Tasks
| Name | Weighting | Hurdle | Due |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading Literature Report | 33% | No | September, 15, 2017 |
| Presentation of RQ | 34% | No | October 10, 2017 |
| Language Literature Report | 33% | No | November 17, 2017 |
Reading Literature Report
Due: September, 15, 2017
Weighting: 33%
A summary and evaluation of the design and results of two or three research papers (or chapters) that are part of the literature for Module 1.
1250-1500 words.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Advanced knowledge about theories of spoken language production, reading and reading development
- Ability to read an empirical paper and identify its theoretical strengths, weaknesses and relevance
- Ability to critically evaluate scientific methods, data and claims
- Ability to identify and discuss relevant content of scientific papers and book chapters in own words
Presentation of RQ
Due: October 10, 2017
Weighting: 34%
A spoken presentation (10 minutes) in which the student has to
1. Summarise two or three research papers (or chapters) from Module 2 leading to:
2. The formulation of a relevant Research Question (RQ)
3. And how this could be investigated (description of the study design)
4. There will be 5 minutes of question time after each presentation
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Advanced knowledge about theories of spoken language production, reading and reading development
- Ability to read an empirical paper and identify its theoretical strengths, weaknesses and relevance
- Ability to critically evaluate scientific methods, data and claims
- Ability to identify and discuss relevant content of scientific papers and book chapters in own words
- Ability to formulate a clear research question that follows up/builds upon a published study
- Ability to present research to a variety of audiences in a clear and engaging way
Language Literature Report
Due: November 17, 2017
Weighting: 33%
Select one theoretical issue discussed in Module 3 and summarise and critically evaluate the evidence surrounding this issue in the research literature (using the references cited in the lectures as a starting point).
1250-1500 words
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Advanced knowledge about theories of spoken language production, reading and reading development
- Ability to read an empirical paper and identify its theoretical strengths, weaknesses and relevance
- Ability to critically evaluate scientific methods, data and claims
- Ability to identify and discuss relevant content of scientific papers and book chapters in own words
Delivery and Resources
For each Lecture, references to the literature (typically up to three papers and/ or chapters) will be provided at least two weeks in advance.
Unit Schedule
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Location: AHH 3.610 (see 15/8 and 24/10 for exceptions) Time: 10-12 |
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Week | Date Tuesdays 2017 | Module and content | Lecturer | Assessment |
| 1 | NO CLASS | |||
| 2 | 8/8 | 1 - Unit intro & Basics on reading and reading development | Dr. Eva Marinus | |
| 3 |
15/8 ROOM 3.716 |
1 - Reading fluency: Treatment and text presentation | Dr. Eva Marinus | |
|
4 |
22/8 | 1 - Reading and learning to read in different languages | Dr. Eva Marinus | |
| 5 | 29/8 | 1 - Learning to code and computational thinking | Dr. Eva Marinus | |
| 6 | 5/9 | 2 - Acquired vs. developmental reading disorders | Prof. Anne Castles | |
| 7 | 12/9 | 2 - Early visual letter processing and letter position dyslexia | Prof. Anne Castles |
Report 1 on choice of topic/ literature of Module 1 Deadline: 15/9 5pm |
| 18-29/9 | SEMESTER BREAK | |||
| 8 | 3/10 | 2 - Precursors of learning to read: Phonological awareness | Prof. Anne Castles | |
| 9 | 10/10 | Student presentations | Marinus, Castles & Nickels | Presentation Research Question and Design on choice of topic Module 2 |
| 10 | 17/10 | 3 - Introduction to information processing models of language and to language impairments | Prof. Lyndsey Nickels | |
| 11 |
24/10 ROOM 3.310 |
3 - The nature of representation and flow of activation in spoken word production Part I | Prof. Lyndsey Nickels | |
| 12 | 31/10 | 3 - The nature of representation and flow of activation in spoken word production Part II | Prof. Lyndsey Nickels | |
| 13 | 7/11 | RESERVE | ||
| 14 | NO CLASS |
Report 2 on choice of topic/ literature of Module 3 Deadline: 17/11 5pm |
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Policies and Procedures
Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central. Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:
Academic Honesty Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/academic_honesty/policy.html
Assessment Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/assessment/policy_2016.html
Grade Appeal Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/gradeappeal/policy.html
Complaint Management Procedure for Students and Members of the Public http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/complaint_management/procedure.html
Disruption to Studies Policy (in effect until Dec 4th, 2017): http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/disruption_studies/policy.html
Special Consideration Policy (in effect from Dec 4th, 2017): https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policies/special-consideration
In addition, a number of other policies can be found in the Learning and Teaching Category of Policy Central.
Student Code of Conduct
Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct: https://students.mq.edu.au/support/student_conduct/
Results
Results shown in iLearn, or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au.
Student Support
Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/
Learning Skills
Learning Skills (mq.edu.au/learningskills) provides academic writing resources and study strategies to improve your marks and take control of your study.
Student Services and Support
Students with a disability are encouraged to contact the Disability Service who can provide appropriate help with any issues that arise during their studies.
Student Enquiries
For all student enquiries, visit Student Connect at ask.mq.edu.au
IT Help
For help with University computer systems and technology, visit http://www.mq.edu.au/about_us/offices_and_units/information_technology/help/.
When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use of IT Resources Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.
Graduate Capabilities
PG - Capable of Professional and Personal Judgment and Initiative
Our postgraduates will demonstrate a high standard of discernment and common sense in their professional and personal judgment. They will have the ability to make informed choices and decisions that reflect both the nature of their professional work and their personal perspectives.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Ability to read an empirical paper and identify its theoretical strengths, weaknesses and relevance
- Ability to critically evaluate scientific methods, data and claims
- Ability to identify and discuss relevant content of scientific papers and book chapters in own words
- Ability to formulate a clear research question that follows up/builds upon a published study
- Ability to present research to a variety of audiences in a clear and engaging way
Assessment tasks
- Reading Literature Report
- Presentation of RQ
- Language Literature Report
PG - Discipline Knowledge and Skills
Our postgraduates will be able to demonstrate a significantly enhanced depth and breadth of knowledge, scholarly understanding, and specific subject content knowledge in their chosen fields.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Advanced knowledge about theories of spoken language production, reading and reading development
- Ability to formulate a clear research question that follows up/builds upon a published study
Assessment tasks
- Reading Literature Report
- Presentation of RQ
- Language Literature Report
PG - Critical, Analytical and Integrative Thinking
Our postgraduates will be capable of utilising and reflecting on prior knowledge and experience, of applying higher level critical thinking skills, and of integrating and synthesising learning and knowledge from a range of sources and environments. A characteristic of this form of thinking is the generation of new, professionally oriented knowledge through personal or group-based critique of practice and theory.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Ability to read an empirical paper and identify its theoretical strengths, weaknesses and relevance
- Ability to critically evaluate scientific methods, data and claims
- Ability to identify and discuss relevant content of scientific papers and book chapters in own words
- Ability to formulate a clear research question that follows up/builds upon a published study
Assessment tasks
- Reading Literature Report
- Presentation of RQ
- Language Literature Report
PG - Research and Problem Solving Capability
Our postgraduates will be capable of systematic enquiry; able to use research skills to create new knowledge that can be applied to real world issues, or contribute to a field of study or practice to enhance society. They will be capable of creative questioning, problem finding and problem solving.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcome
- Ability to identify and discuss relevant content of scientific papers and book chapters in own words
Assessment tasks
- Reading Literature Report
- Presentation of RQ
- Language Literature Report
PG - Effective Communication
Our postgraduates will be able to communicate effectively and convey their views to different social, cultural, and professional audiences. They will be able to use a variety of technologically supported media to communicate with empathy using a range of written, spoken or visual formats.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcome
- Ability to present research to a variety of audiences in a clear and engaging way
Assessment tasks
- Reading Literature Report
- Presentation of RQ
- Language Literature Report
PG - Engaged and Responsible, Active and Ethical Citizens
Our postgraduates will be ethically aware and capable of confident transformative action in relation to their professional responsibilities and the wider community. They will have a sense of connectedness with others and country and have a sense of mutual obligation. They will be able to appreciate the impact of their professional roles for social justice and inclusion related to national and global issues
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Ability to identify and discuss relevant content of scientific papers and book chapters in own words
- Ability to present research to a variety of audiences in a clear and engaging way
Assessment tasks
- Reading Literature Report
- Presentation of RQ
- Language Literature Report
General overview
This unit forms part of a four-unit core sequence covering a range of foundational and cutting-edge research topics in cognitive science, with an emphasis on active research programs at MQ. This team-taught unit is made up of a selection of three topic modules, led by experts specialising in these fields. The first two modules focus on reading, covering topics such as development, remediation and learning to read in different languages. The first module will also give a brief introduction to the novel discipline of learning to code. The last module focusses on theories of spoken word production and how evidence from acquired language disorders can inform these theories. Throughout the unit we discuss how cognitive scientists approach research questions and design experiments in these domains.