Department of Psychology, Unit Catalogue 2006/07

PS30019 Artificial minds: Minds, machines & persons

Credits: 6

Level: Honours

Semester: 2

Assessment: ES80OR20

Requisites:

Before taking this unit you must take PS10086 and take PS20106 and take PS20108

Aims: To introduce some recent research in the field of computer-based modelling and simulation of human activities which require the intelligent use of knowledge, otherwise known as Artificial Intelligence. We will approach machine intelligence through two complementary questions: could human intelligence be simulated, equalled or even exceeded by machines? Can the machine-metaphor still help us understand human cognitive and social processes?
Learning Outcomes:
Students will understand the difference between traditional AI (based on knowledge engineering) and more recent approaches (based on evolutionary and other biological processes) and the implications of each to larger questions concerning the nature of intelligence and of scientific approaches to the replication of complex attributes such as intelligence. Students will become familiar with key authors and texts, and will learn to evaluate claims about computer programs and simulations.
Skills:

* Understands the scientific underpinnings of psychology as a discipline, its historical origins, development and limitations. (T/F A)
* Recognises the inherent variability and diversity of psychological functioning and its significance. (T/F)
* Can demonstrate systematic knowledge and critical understanding of a range of influences on psychological functioning, how they are conceptualised across the core areas, and how they interrelate. The core knowledge domains within psychology include (i) research methods, (ii) biological psychology, (iii) cognitive psychology, (iv) individual differences, (v) developmental psychology and (vi) social psychology. In addition to these core areas it is expected that students will gain knowledge of conceptual and historical perspectives in psychology. (T/F)Has detailed knowledge of several specialised areas and/or applications, some of which are at the cutting edge of research in the discipline (T/F A)
* Can reason scientifically, understand the role of evidence and make critical judgements about arguments in psychology. (T/F)
* Can adopt multiple perspectives and systematically analyse the relationships between them. (T/F A)
* Can detect meaningful patterns in behaviour and experience and evaluate their significance. (T/F)
* Can pose, operationalise and critically evaluate research questions. (T/F A)
* Can demonstrate substantial competence in research skills through practical activities. (T/F)
* To reflect upon new technology and innovation within psychology and to make decisions regarding legitimacy, reliability and effectiveness. (T/F)
* Can communicate ideas and research findings both effectively and fluently by written, oral and visual means. (T/F A)
* Is sensitive to and can react appropriately to contextual and interpersonal factors in groups and teams. (T/F A)
* Can undertake self-directed study and project management in order to meet desired objectives. (T/F A)
Content:
Machine-metaphors for human thinking and reasoning now compete with evolutionary biology and neurology for influence in both psychological and sociological approaches to human behaviour. The course will provide historical background, will introduce some of the main approaches and research projects in the field , and will set out two main areas of debate: criticisms made by AI researchers about rival approaches, and arguments of philosophers, sociologists and psychologists about the attempt to simulate intelligence. MSc/Diploma students will undertake research for an additional essay on the impact of AI research on human/machine boundaries.

University | Catalogues for 2006/07