DEVELOPMENTAL COGNITIVE PSYCHOLOGY

The course develops basic knowledge that students interested in language research and cognition should possess.

Students will have to demonstrate a satisfactory understanding of the themes and research context in which they were born. We will particularly insist on the experimental methods used in research in early cognition.

A good knowledge of scientific English is required.

The class will cover topics related to the early onset of human cognition. We will focus on some basic case-studies, trying to connect them to contemporary psychological and philosophical views of the organization of the human mind. Topics will include:
- Historical and philosophical foundations of cognition and development theories.
- Developmental processes
- The initial understanding of the physical world and the development of the concept of object;
- The notion of natural categories;
- The understanding of other minds.
- The basics of numerical reasoning in infancy.
- The origins of probabilistic and logical reasoning
- The mechanisms of knowledge acquisition.
The class will only examine classic and contemporary primary literature.

A collection of articles (in pdf) will be made available during the class.
Shaffer, D.R. & Kipp, K. (2015) Psicologia dello sviluppo. Infanzia e adolescenza. Padova: Piccin. Capitoli 1, 4, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 14, 15

An oral exam will test the knowledge of topics discussed during the lessons and of the course texts and materials. The ability to use critical reasoning, and the quality of language used will, also, be tested.
Constant participation in the class and class activities is strongly recommended. Special situations will have to be discussed directly with the teacher.

The course consists of lectures and class discussions.
Active student participation is encouraged.

Italian

oral