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The neuropsychology of decision making

University of Cambridge via Coursera

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Overview

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An introductory course to the complex cognitive process that is decision-making, from a neuropsychological perspective. Covering basic neuroanatomy, neurodevelopment, important structures, chemicals and networks, individual differences in decision-making and decision-making deficits.

Syllabus

Welcome to the course
Module 1 - Introduction to neuroanatomy & neurodevelopment

This module will provide participants with a basic understanding of anatomy and development, providing an important basis for the following modules. This module will not have a specific focus on decision making, but will provide participants with a basic knowledge that will be needed to be able to understand the later content on decision making.

Module 2 - The importance of the prefrontal cortex

This module will provide participants with an understanding of what the prefrontal cortex is and how it is involved in high order processes, specifically decision making. Participants will gain a general understanding of what makes the prefrontal cortex unique in terms of structure and function. This module will cover research evidence surrounding the involvement of the prefrontal cortex in various aspects of decision making.

Module 3 - Neurotransmitters, neurophysiology and decision networks

This module will build upon the anatomical and physiological knowledge developed so far, gaining a more complex understanding of how decisions are made. Participants will learn about the neurotransmitters involved in a decision and how they 'act' in terms of physiology. Participants will also learn about brain connectivity, specifically, research evidence surrounding the specific connections and networks involved in decision-making.

Module 4 - Decision making styles and the role of childhood experiences

This module puts the previous module learning into an applied context, exploring decision-making and development of decision-making as a dynamic process. Specifically, there will be a focus on differences in decision-making style exhibited in adulthood and factors in childhood that can affect the development of decision-making.

Module 5 - Decision making deficits

This module brings together everything covered in modules 1-4 in terms of neurotypical decision making, to explore deficits in decision making, such as that seen in schizophrenia. The content in this module will cover observed decision-making deficits, research evidence suggesting underlying biological causes, and the roles of external factors (e.g. in childhood).