B8882 - Cognition, Brain and Behavior: Perception and Action (1) (LM)

Learning outcomes

This course will provide students with an overview of the mechanisms responsible for purposeful action. On completion of this course, students will be able to describe key empirical findings in the fields of cognitive psychology and neuroscience of action; summarize major theoretical approaches to perception and action; critically evaluate the evidence on how we feel ownership of our bodies and authorship of our actions.

Course contents

This course will cover key theories on the links between perception and action. First, we will focus on human vision discussing key theoretical perspectives on perception. We will critically evaluate evidence from neuropsychological patients, neuroimaging, and behavioural studies supporting models of cognition in which perception and action are deeply intertwined. We will then examine the basic structure of the motor system and some core control principles for action, such as feedback control and forward modelling. Finally, we will consider how it is possible to distinguish between our own actions from those of others, and how we can understand others’ intention.

Students with SLD or temporary or permanent disabilities. It is suggested that they get in touch as soon as possible with the relevant University office (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en ) and with the lecturer in order to seek together the most effective strategies for following the lessons and/or preparing for the examination.

Readings/Bibliography

The relevant course material will be shared with students during the course of the teaching period. The course content is based primarily on scientific papers and articles. Students will be asked to read these in advance and to discuss these in class.

The reading list is available on Virtuale.

Non-attending students are strongly encouraged to contact the lecturer to discuss a tailored list of additional readings.

Teaching methods

The course will be delivered through a mixture of structured lectures and small group teaching involving focused discussions on key topics and group discussion of research papers.

Assessment methods

The final assessment will be a written exam. Students will have one and a half hour to answer five questions.

Exam sessions. During the 2026/2027 academic year, exam sessions are scheduled in the following months: December - January - March - June - July - September.

AI. AI can be a useful tool to support individual study through in-depth analyses, summaries, and self-assessment tools. The use of AI is prohibited during in-person exams. Any use constitutes a violation of academic integrity.

Students with disabilities and Specific Learning Disorders (SLD). Students with disabilities or Specific Learning Disorders have the right to special adjustments according to their condition, following an assessment by the Service for Students with Disabilities and SLD. Please do not contact the instructor but get in touch with the Service directly to schedule an appointment. It will be the responsibility of the Service to determine the appropriate adjustments. For more information, visit the page: https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en/for-students .

It is recommended that students contact the University office in advance. Any proposed adjustments must be submitted at least 15 days in advance for the instructor’s approval, who will evaluate their appropriateness in relation to the learning objectives of the course.

Teaching tools

Lectures material will be shared with students together with the scientific papers and articles that will be considered in class. Students will be invited to take part in an empirical study to further their understanding of research methods.

Office hours

See the website of Elena Gherri