512-395 Intro. to Mathematical Psychology 3

512-220 and 620-141 (or equivalent)

This subject introduces mathematical modelling of psychological phenomena. It reviews the role of quantification in the development of psychology and provides a broad overview of contemporary mathematical approaches to the representation of psychological phenomena. In addition, the modelling of a number of specific psychological phenomena is examined in depth. In-depth topics will be selected from psychophysics; the foundations of psychological measurement; models for response times; models for memory and attentional processes; judgment and decision-making models; models for motor control; computational models for cognitive processes; psychological scaling and latent variable models; and mathematical models for social and organisational processes.

On completion of this subject, students should be able to: critically evaluate the application of mathematical models in applied and theoretical contexts; more clearly communicate the application of mathematical methods to applied problems; identify and solve research problems amenable to mathematical representation.

A written report of no more than 2000 words (50%), and an examination of no more than two hours (50%).

Each piece of assessment must be completed (hurdle requirement).

Attendance at 80% or more of practical classes is a hurdle requirement. (In case of failure to meet the hurdle requirement, additional equivalent practical work will be required before a passing grade can be awarded.)