Neurocognitive Methods and Data Analysis

Learning objectives: 

Students acquire essential theoretical background knowledge for the practical implementation and evaluation of experimental studies in cognitive neuroscience. They obtain knowledge about the most common measurement methods, experimental designs, and intervention methods used in current neurocognitive research (e.g., reaction time measurement, oculomotor and pupillometry, EEG, fMRI, fNIRS, non-invasive neuromodulation techniques/tDCS/rTMS). They are familiar with the physical, neurobiological, and data analytic foundations of typical neurocognitive methods, with a focus on magneto- and electroencephalography (M/EEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). The students are capable of critically reflecting on the possibilities and limitations of typical neurocognitive methods and interpreting research results obtained through neurocognitive methods in the context of neurocognitive theories.

Content:

This module makes use of review articles and advanced literature to provide an overview of current neurocognitive methods and typical experimental designs . Basic aspects of neurophysiology and M/EEG signal generation, recording, and analysis are taught. An introduction to fMRI is provided through use of a textbook and further literature, and basic aspects of fMRI signal generation, recording, and analysis also form part of the curriculum. Students analyze M/EEG and fMRI datasets and create analysis scripts for data processing.