Handbook

This course builds on Neuropsychology 1: Disruptions by providing an in-depth understanding of how neuropsychological function and disorders manifest across the life span. The course focuses on normal and abnormal development of the central nervous system, a range of developmental, acquired and genetic disorders that can disrupt neural and cognitive development in childhood and the impact of these disorders when acquired in adulthood. Students will participate in active problem solving of common issues that arise with respect to assessment and interventions in children and adults, as well as methods for working within the broader context of families, schools and support providers. Major categories of brain disruption will be covered including damage arising from head trauma, stroke, epilepsy, neurological disease (Multiple Sclerosis, Huntington’s Disease), neurosurgery, oncology, and substance use. 

It is expected that students who have completed PSYC7241 will be confidently able to interview clients of all ages, including children and their families, undertake a comprehensive medical and psychosocial history, select appropriate assessment instruments, interpret neuropsychological test data and qualitative information to diagnose a disorder, appreciate the importance and influence of cultural context on the manifestation and impact of neuropsychological impairment, and understand how to work with the family and other organisations and professionals to support the child with cognitive and/or behavioural difficulties.

The course combines asynchronous lectures (1 – 2 hours) with two-hour practical tutorials or occasional full day workshops. The content is designed to focus on specific cases using problem-based learning approaches. Thus, for example, when discussing a case of foetal alcohol syndrome, the neuroanatomy, common neuropsychological profile, assessment approaches, cultural considerations, communication with other relevant professionals, report writing and remediation implications will be considered.  Students will be expected to take an active role in preparing for, presenting and discussing cases to foster opportunities for peer-to-peer learning. Students will be provided with preliminary readings and case material in order to prepare for the tutorials. Case discussions will provide class members the opportunity to practice integrating lecture-based information in order to plan the assessment, diagnosis and management of individuals with neuropsychological disorders and consider the broader assessment context (cultural factors, roles of other professionals, additional neuro-clinical tests, co-morbidities).

While lectures will focus upon the basic elements of neuropsychology, the topic is a broad one and the study guide and reference lists provide the opportunity for in-depth study. It is expected that students will independently read on each topic discussed in class. In addition, students are encouraged to prepare for case studies in small groups, in order to hone skills in test interpretation and critical consideration of treatment approaches. All the tests discussed are available in the Test Library and students are encouraged to familiarise themselves with these as they come up in class. This is a unique opportunity to develop this knowledge base, because few professional settings will offer as expansive a resource in tests as does the UNSW Test Library. Finally, the material presented in this course will be of direct relevance when conducting neuropsychological assessments on placement. Lecture notes and references should be utilised heavily when taking on such clients.