Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience

How do our brains shape the way we think, feel, and behave? In this two-week precollege course, students will explore the fascinating fields of psychology and cognitive neuroscience. Through interactive lectures, lab demonstrations, and hands-on activities, students will investigate topics such as memory, learning, decision-making, and emotion. They will also examine how researchers use cutting-edge tools—like brain imaging, cognitive testing, and behavioral experiments—to understand the mind.

Alongside faculty and graduate student mentors, participants will gain insight into the scientific process, from forming research questions to interpreting data. The course will also connect theory to everyday life: How does attention influence performance in school or sports? Why do we sometimes make irrational decisions? What does brain science tell us about mental health? By the end of the program, students will have a deeper understanding of both the brain’s complexity and the methods used to study it—and will leave with skills and perspectives useful for any future path in science, medicine, or the humanities.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1. Explain core concepts in psychology and cognitive neuroscience, including memory, attention, perception, and emotion.
2. Describe the scientific methods used to study the brain and behavior, including experiments and neuroimaging techniques.
3. Analyze real or simulated data to draw conclusions about psychological phenomena.
4. Apply psychological and neuroscience concepts to everyday situations, from decision-making to stress management.
5. Evaluate ethical considerations in brain and behavior research.
6. Reflect on their personal interest in psychology, neuroscience, or related fields as potential college and career pathways.

Tangible Outcomes

Capstone Project: In groups, students will design and present a mini research proposal on a question of their choice in psychology or cognitive neuroscience.

Hands-on Activities

• Lab Demonstrations: Observe how EEG (brainwave recording) or fMRI (through case studies and datasets) are used to study the brain in action.
• Memory & Attention Experiments: Participate in simple experiments (e.g., Stroop test, working memory tasks) to experience psychological research firsthand.
• Case Studies: Examine real-world examples where brain science intersects with mental health, education, or law.
• Small-Group Data Analysis: Work with sample neuroscience data sets to practice drawing scientific conclusions.

Guest Lectures: Hear from Dartmouth researchers studying topics like decision-making, child development, or neural disorders.

Field Trip / Lab Tour: Visit Dartmouth’s neuroscience labs and psychology research centers for behind-the-scenes exposure.

Information is subject to change as instructors finalize course content and syllabi.