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Neurodevelopmental Disorders - PSY00040H

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  • Department: Psychology
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: H
  • Academic year of delivery: 2023-24

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 1 2023-24

Module aims

This module examines the behavioural, cognitive and biological manifestations of neurodevelopmental disorders, including reading impairments, developmental language disorder, dyscalculia, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and autism. Our exploration of each disorder will be grounded in the context of typical development. In addition to considering methodological approaches to studying atypical development, we will also consider new theoretical approaches in the field, including the “transdiagnostic approach”, which acknowledges that disorders rarely occur in isolation. We will also consider current challenges, including the need to consider diversity in neurodevelopmental disorders research.

Module learning outcomes

  • Describe the behavioural presentation of common neurodevelopmental disorders, such as dyslexia, developmental language disorder, dyscalculia, autism spectrum disorder, and ADHD.
  • Give an account of core biological and cognitive mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental disorders discussed in the module.
  • Consider cross-cutting themes in the area of neurodevelopmental disorders, such as co-occurence, the transdiagnostic approach and diversity.

Module content

  • Reading Disorders
  • Developmental Language Disorder
  • Mathematics Disorder
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
  • Overlap among disorders and transdiagnostic approach

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Online Exam -less than 24hrs (Centrally scheduled) 100

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Online Exam -less than 24hrs (Centrally scheduled) 100

Module feedback

Marks will be released through e:vision.

Indicative reading

The key textbook for this module is Hulme, C. & Snowling, M.J. (2009) 'Developmental Disorders of Language, Learning and Cogntion'. Wiley-Blackwell.

In addition to the relevant chapter, there will be 1-2 additional key readings for each seminar, as well as suggested further reading for students who wish to explore the topics in more depth.



The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University constantly explores ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary. In some instances it may be appropriate for the University to notify and consult with affected students about module changes in accordance with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.