This course provides an introduction to the history of clinical neuropsychology. It then focuses on the process of neuropsychological assessment in detail, covering methods of assessment, factors that must be considered in the interpretation of test data, as well as the psychometric underpinnings of neuropsychological assessment and issues associated with assessment in a cross-cultural context. The methodology of cognitive neuropsychology will be examined in relation its use in developing theory and practice. There will be an opportunity to explore in detail the strengths and limitations of some of the most commonly used neuropsychological tests focusing on normative samples as well as the validity and reliability of each test.

Five consecutive days as a part of a two-week teaching block in September.

None

None

One exam, two hours in length.

To develop specialist understanding and knowledge about why certain procedures are adopted in assessment, management and rehabilitation, where these procedures arise from and alternatives.

To develop specialist knowledge and a conceptual understanding of cognitive neuropsychological approaches and of health psychology approaches relevant to clinical neuropsychology.

To develop a conceptual understanding and specialist knowledge of important psychometric principles and the validity and reliability of commonly used test instruments, their power and utility in comparison with other tests.

To demonstrate a specialist understanding and knowledge of the historical foundations and rationales for procedures used in clinical neuropsychology.

To demonstrate knowledge of, and be able to critically appraise, the contributions of cognitive neuropsychology to clinical neuropsychology.

To demonstrate specialist knowledge of important psychometric principles that enable the student to evaluate and critically appraise new and commonly used tests.

To demonstrate an understanding of the issues and solutions to the challenge of conducting a neuropsychological assessment in a cross-cultural context.

Students must pass the examination.