The Cognitive Psychology of Sleep - PSY00026M
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| A | Semester 1 2025-26 |
Module aims
We spend more than 200,000 hours of our lives asleep, compared with perhaps 20,000 hours in formal education. Surprisingly, the effects of sleep on the brain remain poorly understood. This module will explore the impact of sleep on cognitive performance, drawing evidence from behavioural neuroscience, cognitive neuroscience and cognitive psychology methods. Although the module cuts across several strands of psychology, there will be a particular focus on the potential impact of sleep on memory and knowledge.
Module learning outcomes
- Compare and contrast the main models of sleep associated consolidation
- Critically evaluate evidence relating to the impact of sleep on memory and cognitive performance
- Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of how specific components of sleep relate to changes in behaviour
- Apply theoretical knowledge of sleep deprivation and sleep disorders to practical issues relating to cognitive performance
- Critically evaluate the relationship between dreams and behaviour
Module content
- Why do we sleep?
- Sleep deprivation and cognitive performance
- Theories of memory consolidation
- Sleep and memory consolidation
- Sleep and emotion
- Dreams and behaviour
- Levels of consciousness
- Sleep disorders and cognition
- Sleep across the lifespan
Indicative assessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 100 |
Special assessment rules
None
Indicative reassessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 100 |
Module feedback
The marks on all assessed work will be provided on e-vision.
Indicative reading
Introductory Reading:
Siegel, J. M. (2009). Sleep viewed as a state of adaptive inactivity. Nat Rev Neurosci, 10, 747-753.
Walker, M. (2018). Why We Sleep: The New Science of Sleep and Dreams. Penguin.