Applied Cognition and Neuroscience

ACN 5314 (HCS 5314) Computational Modeling Methods in Behavioral and Brain Sciences (3 semester credit hours) Historical introduction to machine learning algorithms from a cognitive-neuroscience perspective. Includes an introduction to important and widely used computational modeling methodologies in psychology, neuroscience, and machine learning. No mathematical prerequisites and no computer programming prerequisites, but students will use machine learning software to support data analyses and simulation experiments. Prerequisites: BBSC majors only and department consent required. (3-0) T

ACN 6110 (HCS 6110) Fundamentals of Functional Brain Imaging Lab (1 semester credit hour) This course covers the neurophysiology and mechanics of functional neuroimaging data collection and analysis. Topics include methods of data collection, experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation. Students work in the lab to develop proficiency with neuroimaging analysis software tools. Class meetings will consist of lectures, hands-on demonstrations, and work-through sessions with readily available data sets to learn the mechanics of basic fMRI data analysis. Corequisite: ACN 6310 or HCS 6310. Prerequisites: BBSC majors only and department consent required. (0-3) Y

ACN 6160 Neurobiology (1 semester credit hour) A self-paced course providing the neurobiological foundation for the study of speech-language pathology. Pass/Fail only. This course is offered in an online format only. At the discretion of the professor, exams of fully online courses may use proctoring software that requires a webcam scan of the testing area and the recording of all activity during the exam. Prerequisites: Speech-Language Pathology M.S. students only and department consent required. (1-0) S

ACN 6310 (HCS 6310) Fundamentals of Functional Brain Imaging (3 semester credit hours) In-depth topics in brain imaging including neuroimaging detection systems (primarily MRI), experimental design, statistical techniques in image analysis, clinical applications of functional neuroimaging, and reviews of pertinent literature using functional brain imaging to illuminate various cognitive and perceptual processes, including language, memory, hearing, and vision. Corequisite: ACN 6110 or HCS 6110. Prerequisites: BBSC majors only and department consent required. (3-0) Y

ACN 6312 (HCS 6312 and PSYC 6312) Research Methods in Behavioral and Brain Sciences - Part I (3 semester credit hours) This course focuses on applying, understanding, and interpreting various ANOVA-related statistical techniques in a behavioral science context. Students learn the frameworks for hypothesis testing and effect size estimation. The course provides students with an understanding of the interrelationships among statistical techniques, and computer skills required for data analyses. Students without the necessary background knowledge of basic statistics and experimental design will be required to take PSY 3392 before registering for ACN 6312. Prerequisites: BBSC majors only and department consent required. (3-0) Y

ACN 6313 (HCS 6313 and PSYC 6313) Research Methods in Behavioral and Brain Sciences - Part II (3 semester credit hours) This course focuses on applying, understanding, and interpreting regression and analysis of variance -related statistical techniques in a behavioral and brain science context. The course provides students with increased conceptual understanding of topics within regression and analysis of variance (e.g., hierarchical regression analysis, multiple regression with continuous and categorical predictors, regression diagnostics, fixed, random, and mixed effect models), along with computer skills required to interpret data analyses. Prerequisites: (ACN 6312 or HCS 6312 or PSYC 6312) and department consent required. (3-0) Y

ACN 6323 (HCS 6323) Neurophysiology (3 semester credit hours) This course focuses on the elements of neural functions ranging from the kinetics of channels in excitable membranes to the collective behavior of real neural networks. Prerequisites: (ACN 6340 or HCS 6340) and department consent required. (3-0) Y

ACN 6330 (HCS 6330 and PSYC 6330) Cognitive Science (3 semester credit hours) Cognitive, computational, and neural processing approaches to understanding perception, memory, thought, language, and emotion. Prerequisites: BBSC majors only and department consent required. (3-0) Y

ACN 6331 (HCS 6331 and PSYC 6331) Cognitive Development (3 semester credit hours) Survey of cognitive development theories and research in a variety of domains including language, memory, social cognition, and learning. Prerequisites: BBSC majors only and department consent required. (3-0) Y

ACN 6332 (HCS 6332 and PSYC 6332) Perception (3 semester credit hours) Psychophysical, neurophysiological, and computational foundations of sensation and perception. Basic senses of vision, audition, chemoreception, and tactile processing, with emphasis on understanding the processes that take us from neurons to perception and action. (3-0) R

ACN 6333 (HCS 6333 and PSYC 6333) Human Memory (3 semester credit hours) Current research and theory on the acquisition, representation, and retrieval of information by the mind/brain. Includes an overview of information processing, neuropsychological and cognitive neuroscience perspectives. Prerequisites: BBSC majors only and department consent required. (3-0) R

ACN 6334 (HCS 6334) Attention (3 semester credit hours) Theory and evidence on the study of attention especially in human vision and audition. Includes consideration of automatic and controlled processes, the time course of perceptual processing, and the role of working memory. (3-0) R

ACN 6337 (HCS 6337 and PHIL 6367) Cognitive Ethnography (3 semester credit hours) Students in this course will learn to observe, document, and analyze cognitive processes in real-world settings using the methods of cognitive ethnography. The course provides the theoretical and philosophical framework of embodied, situated, and distributed cognition and the interaction of cognition and culture that forms the foundation of cognitive ethnography methodology. The course may emphasize the uses of cognitive ethnography in human-computer interaction, system design, laboratory studies, cultural psychology, or media effects. Department consent required. (3-0) R

ACN 6338 (HCS 6338 and PSYC 6338) Functional Neuroanatomy (3 semester credit hours) An introduction to human neuroanatomy organized by major brain system. Function of the neuroanatomy of each major system and relation to neurological disorders associated with damage to the neuroanatomy of the system. Prerequisites: BBSC majors only and department consent required. (3-0) Y

ACN 6340 (HCS 6340) Cellular Neuroscience (3 semester credit hours) A detailed study of neural physiology and the principles of synaptic transmission. Prerequisites: BBSC majors only and department consent required. (3-0) Y

ACN 6341 Foundations of Human-Computer Interaction (3 semester credit hours) Principles of human factors and technology trends within human-computer interaction (HCI). Discussions of the relevance of cognitive science methodologies and findings. Exploration of HCI research and practice through readings in journal articles and research reports. Department consent required. (3-0) Y

ACN 6342 Applied Human-Computer Interaction (3 semester credit hours) Broad overview of how human-computer interaction (HCI) informs the user-centered design (UCD) process. Practical experience in the core methods of user experience (UX) design and research throughout the product development lifecycle. Department consent required. (3-0) Y

ACN 6344 Human-Computer Interaction Lab (3 semester credit hours) Exploration of advanced topics in human-computer interaction (HCI) in both research and industry. Practical experience with latent methods used in user experience design and research that build upon core methods introduced in ACN 6342. Prerequisite: ACN 6342 or instructor consent required. (3-0) Y

ACN 6345 (HCS 6343) Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (3 semester credit hours) Current research and theory on modifications in the central nervous system that contribute to the processes of learning and memory. Includes an overview of different forms of learning as assessed in model systems, with reviews of anatomical, cellular, and molecular changes underlying neuronal and behavioral plasticity. Prerequisites: (ACN 6346 or HCS 6346 or PSYC 6346) and department consent required. (3-0) Y

ACN 6346 (HCS 6346 and PSYC 6346) Systems Neuroscience (3 semester credit hours) Integrative systems level study of the nervous system. Aspects of neural mechanisms and circuitry underlying regulation of motor behaviors, sensory and perceptual processing, biological homeostasis, and higher cognitive functions. Prerequisites: BBSC majors only and department consent required. (3-0) Y

ACN 6348 (HCS 6348) Neural Net Mathematics (3 semester credit hours) Vector calculus, Radon-Nikodym density functions, vector calculus-based probability theory, and Markov random fields with machine learning and artificial neural network modeling applications. Emphasizes applications of theory to unsupervised, supervised, and reinforcement learning machines and deep learning. This course is a required prerequisite for ACN 6349 and HCS 6349. Prerequisites: Linear algebra and calculus and (STAT 3341 or equivalent) and department consent required. (3-0) T

ACN 6349 (HCS 6349) Statistical Machine Learning (3 semester credit hours) Mathematical tools for investigating the asymptotic behavior of both batch and adaptive machine learning algorithms including convergence of gradient descent batch learning algorithms convergence of adaptive stochastic approximation learning algorithms, and convergence of Monte Carlo Markov Chain algorithms. M-estimation and bootstrap asymptotic statistical theory for characterizing asymptotic behavior of parameter estimates as a function of sample size to support model selection, specification analysis, and hypothesis testing. Emphasizes applications of theory to unsupervised, supervised, and reinforcement learning machines and deep learning. Prerequisites: (ACN 6348 or HCS 6348) and department consent required. (3-0) T

ACN 6367 Speech Perception (3 semester credit hours) Current topics and theories in speech perception. Topics include the acoustic correlates of speech sounds and the problem of invariance, the perception of speech under adverse conditions, the effects of hearing impairment, and models of speech perception. Prerequisites: BBSC majors only and department consent required. (3-0) R

ACN 6368 (HCS 6368 and PSYC 6368) Language Development (3 semester credit hours) Advanced study of normal oral language development. The goals of this course are to consider the developmental trajectories of the different components of language; to consider the varied and critical roles of language in human development; to understand the impact of culture, different languages, child factors and the environment on development; and to be introduced to the theoretical perspectives driving research and thinking in this area of inquiry. Prerequisite: BBSC majors only. (3-0) Y

ACN 6372 (HCS 6372) The Neuroscience of Pain (3 semester credit hours) A systems-oriented course covering the anatomical and physiologic basis of pain. The course describes the basic features of neural processing of pain signals in the spinal cord and brain, the anatomy and the function of the descending systems that can control transmission of pain signals, and peripheral and central sensitization. The physiological and molecular basis for treatment of pain is discussed. Prerequisites: BBSC majors only and department consent required. (3-0) Y

ACN 6373 (HCS 6373) Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) Part I (3 semester credit hours) Covers the anatomical and physiological basis for the use of electrophysiological techniques in the surgical operating room, modalities that are utilized, and surgical procedures that are monitored. Prerequisite: BBSC majors only. (3-0) Y

ACN 6374 (HCS 6374) Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) Part II (3 semester credit hours) Covers recordings of neuro-electric brain potentials and their interpretation during high-risk surgical procedures and clinically for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. The use of various neurophysiological methods for guiding implantation of stimulating electrodes deep in the brain and for assisting the surgeon in certain operations are described. This course will cover an understanding of the various IONM techniques for different surgical procedures, including the brain, spine, and peripheral nerve surgeries. Students will be exposed to the basics and advance knowledge of neurophysiological monitoring techniques. IONM Part II, focusing on the national professional competencies, professional standards of practice, and evidence-based theory, is presented. The students will also learn to utilize research skills to explore the latest protocols and standards of practice. This course is second in two-part sequence to prepare the students for the Certification in Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (CNIM) examination administered by ABRET. IONM Part II is a very interactive course, and the students are expected and encouraged to participate in class discussions. Prerequisite: ACN 6373 or HCS 6373. (3-0) Y

ACN 6375 (HCS 6375) IONM Special Topics (3 semester credit hours) Special topics in the area of Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM). Intraoperative Neurophysiologic Monitoring (IONM) and mapping is an essential tool for surgeons to perform brain surgeries near eloquent tissue safely. Brain Mapping helps the surgeon localize the sensory, motor, language gyrus, and tracts to minimize the risk of an intraoperative injury: brain mapping aid the surgeon in localizing and differentiate healthy and tumor tissue. Advance IONM course presenting special topics in applied cognition and neuroscience. This course will cover an understanding of the various IONM techniques for different surgical procedures each semester. Students will be exposed to the basics and advance knowledge of neurophysiological monitoring and mapping. Professor will discuss advanced mapping and monitoring of the spinal cord, focusing on the national professional competencies, professional standards of practice, and evidence-based theory in this course. The students will learn to use research skills to explore the latest protocols and standards of practice. Students will work on group projects, understand the journal article search, and write a publishable paper. May be repeated for credit as topics vary. Prerequisites: (ACN 6373 or HCS 6373 or ACN 6374 or HCS 6374 or instructor consent) and BBSC majors only. (3-0) Y

ACN 6377 (HCS 6377) IONM Practicum: Instrumentation and Programming (3 semester credit hours) This course provides hands-on training of the equipment, software, and materials used for electrophysiological assessment of the human nervous system in the surgical operating room. Skills training includes software programming, equipment operating, and practice setups on a life-sized model. Prerequisites: (ACN 6373 or HCS 6373 or ACN 6374 or HCS 6374 or instructor consent) and BBSC majors only. (3-0) Y

ACN 6388 (HCS 6388) MATLAB for Brain Sciences (3 semester credit hours) Introduction to MATLAB computer programming. Covers the use of the MATLAB programming language for the purpose of stimulus generation, behavioral data analysis, statistical analyses, and generation of publication quality figures. No computer programming prerequisites but students will learn MATLAB programming. Prerequisites: BBSC majors only and department consent required. (3-0) R

ACN 6389 (HCS 6389) Speech Perception Laboratory (3 semester credit hours) Introduction to the field of speech processing by computer, with primary application to research techniques in the study of speech perception. Lab fee of $30 required. Prerequisites: BBSC majors only and department consent required. (0-9) T

ACN 6395 (HCS 6395 and PSYC 6395) Cognitive Psychology (3 semester credit hours) Theory and research on perception, learning, thinking, psycholinguistics, and memory. Prerequisites: BBSC majors only and department consent required. (3-0) Y

ACN 6V71 Industry Internship (1-6 semester credit hours) Pass/Fail only. May be repeated for credit as topics vary (6 semester credit hours maximum). Prerequisites: BBSC majors only and department consent required. ([1-6]-0) S

ACN 6V72 Research Internship (1-6 semester credit hours) Pass/Fail only. May be repeated for credit as topics vary (6 semester credit hours maximum). Prerequisites: BBSC majors only and instructor consent required. ([1-6]-0) S

ACN 6V81 Special Topics in Applied Cognition and Neuroscience (1-9 semester credit hours) May be repeated for credit as topics vary (12 semester credit hours maximum). Prerequisites: BBSC majors only and department consent required. ([1-9]-0) Y

ACN 6V91 Thesis in Applied Cognition and Neuroscience (1-6 semester credit hours) Pass/Fail only. May be repeated for credit (6 semester credit hours maximum). Prerequisites: BBSC majors only and department consent required. ([1-6]-0) Y

ACN 7310 (HCS 7310) Advanced Research Methods (3 semester credit hours) Advanced methods of inquiry and analysis unique to cognition and neuroscience, communication sciences and disorders, or psychological sciences. May be repeated for credit as topics vary (12 semester credit hours maximum). Prerequisite: ACN 6313 or HCS 6313 or PSYC 6313 or instructor consent required. (3-0) Y

ACN 7320 (HCS 7320) Topics in Multivariate Data Analysis using R (3 semester credit hours) R programming language (including writing functions and using special packages). Using the R programming language to analyze standard designs used in Behavioral and Brain Science. Includes designing publication ready graphics and analysis of experimental data and surveys. May be repeated for credit as topics vary (9 semester credit hours maximum). Prerequisite: ACN 6313 or HCS 6313 or PSYC 6313 or instructor consent required. Corequisite: ACN 7321. (3-0) Y

ACN 7321 (HCS 7321) Topics in Multivariate Data Analysis Theory (3 semester credit hours) Principal component analysis, correspondence analysis, multidimensional scaling, discriminant analysis, partial least square methods, multi-table analysis, cluster analysis, and various other statistical techniques. Includes discussion of computationally intensive cross-validation inference methods such as jackknife and bootstrap. May be repeated for credit as topics vary (9 semester credit hours maximum). Prerequisite: ACN 6313 or HCS 6313 or PSYC 6313 or instructor consent required. Corequisite: ACN 7320. (3-0) Y

ACN 7324 (AUD 7324 and COMD 7324) Seminar in Cochlear Implants and Technology for Persons Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (3 semester credit hours) This course provides an overview of prosthetic alternatives to conventional amplification for individuals with significant hearing loss. Topics include candidacy determination, technology, basics of device programming and troubleshooting, awareness of controversial areas related to cochlear implantation, and future trends in cochlear implantation. Further, this course will cover current issues in the medical, audiological, speech/language, quality of life, and educational management of children and adults with cochlear implants. This course also has a complementary laboratory course. Prerequisites: BBSC majors only and department consent required. (3-0) Y

ACN 7338 (HCS 7338) Brain Connectivity (3 semester credit hours) Systems and cognitive neuroscience based approach towards measuring and understanding patterns of brain connectivity in humans and non-human animals. Prerequisites: (HCS 6346 or HCS 6338) and instructor consent required. (3-0) R

ACN 7343 (HCS 7343) Neuropharmacology (3 semester credit hours) Biology of neurotransmission in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Includes major categories of neurotransmitters and receptors, their neurophysiology, and their associated diseases. Pharmacological agents that manipulate these neurotransmitter systems either for the treatment of disease or for their abuse potential are covered. Prerequisites: (ACN 6340 or HCS 6340 or ACN 6346 or HCS 6346 or PSYC 6346) and department consent required. (3-0) T

ACN 7351 (HCS 7351) Aging and the Nervous System (3 semester credit hours) Critical evaluation of research and theory concerning the impact of aging on neuronal function. Cognitive dysfunctions, dementias, and underlying neuropathologies, as well as neurophysiological and neurochemical changes that accompany normal aging. Prerequisites: BBSC majors only and department consent required. (3-0) R

ACN 7354 (COMD 7354 and HCS 7354) Neural Basis of Music and Language (3 semester credit hours) Music and language are integral and universal components of human nature, as proven by their ubiquity across all cultures. There is a growing body of evidence indicating connections between music and language abilities. The advent of state-of-the-art neuroscience technology allows us to study the relations more systematically at the neural level. This course is designed to offer a general overview of the neuroscience of speech, language, and music, a glimpse of research in this emerging discipline, and a sample of the wide variety of current and possible applications for speech/language interventions of clinical and aging populations. The course does not require a background in neuroscience. Prerequisite: BBSC majors only or instructor consent required. (3-0) Y

ACN 7372 (HCS 7372) Seminar in Neuroscience (3 semester credit hours) Selected topics and current research in neuroscience. May be repeated for credit as topics vary (12 semester credit hours maximum). Prerequisite: BBSC majors only. (3-0) Y

ACN 7387 (COMD 7387 and HCS 7387) Developmental Neurobiology of Language and Cognition (3 semester credit hours) Consideration of current neurological data concerning the pre/postnatal development of the brain and how changes in brain structure and function provide the foundations of children's language development and language disorders. We will examine models of the neural substrates and circuitry underpinning developmental changes in language, cognitive control and working memory, episodic memory, and visual face processing in both typical (monolingual and bilingual) language users and in children with developmental language disorders including specific language impairment, developmental language disorders, reading disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, and cognitive-communicative language disorders. Prerequisites: (COMD 6308 and COMD 6377) or instructor consent required. (3-0) Y