N.B. Language of instruction is English at all times. Proficiency in English as well as a basic understanding of neurobiology are assumed.
Description
The Neuroscience specialization of the course Clinical Assessment and Treatment focuses on structural and functional brain abnormalities that may underlie behavioral and social difficulties throughout development. Central to the Neuroscience specialization is a neuropsychological model, which explains how the relation between brain and behavior is mediated by neuropsychological functions. The model provides a means to explain how brain pathology (including neurobiological abnormalities) can lead to behavioral and social problems.
The course will start with an introduction of the topic, the brain-behavior model, and information about the (development of the) brain. After this, different neuropsychological functions will be discussed, such as perception, motor skills, attention, memory, executive functions, language and speech, emotion and social cognition. The content of these lectures will include: Brain substrates related to the functional domain, neurocognition, and behavior. Theory will be discussed, and illustrated with behavioral classifications that are associated with dysfunctions of the particular functional domain. In addition, attention will be given to the neuropsychological assessment and treatment of these functions. Finally, a number of specific neurological (developmental) disorders will be discussed that are anchored in an altered functioning of the brain, with the focus on the diagnosis and treatment of these disorders (acquired brain injury, genetic syndromes, Autism, Anxiety, ADHD and Conduct Disorder.)
Course objectives
At the end of the course the student has acquired the following objectives:
The student has state-of-the-art knowledge about general brain-behavior pathways.
The student has insight into processes leading to brain pathology and the mechanisms of influence of neuropathology on neuropsychological functions.
The student is able to link neuropsychological (dys)functions to the behavioral correlates.
The student has state-of-the-art knowledge of the etiology, assessment and treatment of brain disorders that affect behavior and social functioning.
The student has knowledge of neuropsychological assessment and treatment
The student is able to integrate scientific knowledge and insights with regard to neuropsychological assessment and treatment in his / her clinical work by transferring this in an understandable manner on parents and other professionals.
The student has profound knowledge of the various theories and methodological approaches common within the domain of developmental neuropsychology.
The student is able to connect scientific knowledge and insights to practical issues in human development
The student is able to establish appropriate professional strategies for child-raising and/or educational issues.
The student is able to analyse and describe practical and theoretical issues in the domain of developmental neuropsychology
The student is able to analyze and evaluate scientific literature critically to establish its practical or theoretical relevance.
The student has knowledge of models and methods of prevention and intervention.
The student is able to identify a theoretical framework suitable for addressing problems and issues relevant for the field of developmental neuropsychology
Timetable
For the timetable of this course please refer to MyTimetable.
Mode of instruction
The course includes ten lectures. In this course the lectures are given in English and the written materials (including instructions and exam questions) are provided in English. However, students are free to respond in Dutch; in other words it is allowed to answer exam questions in Dutch.
Assessment method
Written (open book) exam, in English.
The exam is an 'open book examination'. This means that you are allowed to review the literature and powerpoint slides (as published on Brightspace) that were part of the course; digital pdf copies of all articles and powerpoints in this course are provided within ANS during the exam. Students are also allowed to bring printed hardcopies of the articles and powerpoints (as published on Brightspace) to the exam.
The grade for the exam should be 5,5 or higher in order to pass the course.
Exam material covers the scientific papers listed on Brightspace, as well as the content of the lectures.
An example exam question can be found on Brightspace.
Brightspace
Detailed information is provided on Brightspace. It is important to consult this information throughout the course.
Reading list
English-language scientific articles and/or book chapters selected by lecturers. References will be available on Brightspace at least two weeks prior to the lecture. You can access scientific articles when logged on to the Leiden University Network (e.g., when at the FSW or online via the Leiden University Library webpage).
Registration
Education
Students must register themselves for all course components (lectures, tutorials and practicals) they wish to follow. You can register via My Studymap up to 5 days prior to the start of the course.
Exams
It is mandatory for all students to register for each exam in My Studymap. This is possible up to and including 10 calendar days prior to the examination. You cannot take an exam without a valid registration.
Carefully read all information about the procedures and deadlines for registering for courses and exams.