Applied Cognitive Psychology Research Toolbox

Course goals

After completing the course, the student will have:

• learned to recognize applied cognitive psychology in daily practice
• knowledge on product ergonomics, decision making, signal detection theory, representative design, and Fitts law.
• (computer)skills that will allow the student to work as a cognitive psychologist in the professional field
• an overview of possibilities where to do an internship

Relation between assessment and objective
The acquired knowledge is assessed by means of a written exam, consisting of several open questions. In practical classes both computer skills and knowledge on applying cognitive psychological knowledge on everyday problems are evaluated.

Content

In this course students will learn how to, as an applied cognitive psychologist, apply knowledge of human cognitive, sensory, and motor abilities in day-to-day practice. Therefore, topics from applied cognitive psychology, such as product ergonomics, decision making, signal detection theory, Fitts law, and information theory will be discussed. Through lectures, visiting lecturers from professional practice, and assignments the student learns how psychological knowledge can be applied in everyday practice and how a question from daily practice can be investigated. In addition, the student will learn (computer)skills which allow the student to work as a cognitive psychologist in a company. The guest lectures provide the student with examples and information on applications of cognitive psychology in the occupational field.

Aspects of academic development

• Academic level of thinking and acting
• Translating psychological knowledge to the occupational field
• Studying, structuring and analyzing information

Note: The entire course will be taught in English. This also includes assignments and exams.