Computational Psychology and Artificial Intelligence
Oxford, United Kingdom
DURATION
3 Weeks
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
10 May 2024
EARLIEST START DATE
05 Aug 2024
TUITION FEES
GBP 3,980 / per course *
STUDY FORMAT
Distance Learning, On-Campus
* for a 3-week residential program, including accommodation and meals and for a 3-week online program, the fee is £1,360
Introduction
How does the brain process information, make decisions, and learn? Computational Psychologists seek to answer these questions by using algorithms and mathematical models to simulate and analyze the mechanisms behind mental processes. The field has been highly influential on Artificial Intelligence research and development, as data scientists attempt to convincingly recreate human thought, speech, and behavior in machines, a challenge Alan Turing called the ‘Imitation Game’. Introducing Computational Psychology, Computational Neuroscience, and AI, this course offers a fascinating insight into these exciting and forward-looking interconnected fields of research.
The course begins with an introduction to Computational Psychology, exploring the ways in which process-based computational models may be used to represent the workings of the human brain, employing algorithms to simulate aspects of cognition and predict behavior. We shall then turn to how such models correlate with neurobiology, the actual network of cells and signals which constitutes the brain, investigating neuron models, how neural networks perform computations, and neuropsychological theories of learning. Finally, we shall look at the ways in which computational approaches to psychology and neuroscience have influenced, and been influenced by, developments in Artificial Intelligence. We will discuss the physical symbol systems hypothesis and human and artificial cognitive architectures, before considering future developments in computational psychology and artificial intelligence, such as the possibility of machine consciousness and Artificial General Intelligence.
From analyzing models of mental processes to exploring machine intelligence, join an LMH Summer Program and discover this important and evolving field of research.
Dates and Availability
Available as a Residential or Online course on the following dates:
Session 3: 5th August to 23rd August 2024.
Ideal Students
This course would suit students who are interested in the scientific study of mental processes and their analysis through computational methods.
- Basic knowledge of calculus, linear algebra, and probability theory is required
- Some prior study of Cognitive Psychology is beneficial but not essential
- Prior study of Computer Science, Programming, Artificial Intelligence, or Machine Learning is not required.
Admissions
Scholarships and Funding
Lady Margaret Hall does not offer scholarships or grants for participation in the LMH Summer Programs, but many students find they are able to seek financial assistance from their home university or academic department. The best first point of contact is likely the Study Abroad / International Education Office at your university.
Program Outcome
By the end of this course, you will:
- Understand how computational models are used to simulate mental processes and cognition
- Be able to demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between mathematical models of cognition and the biology of the brain, including neurons, synapses, and circuits
- Be able to evaluate critically the strengths and limitations of computational models in explaining psychological phenomena
- Have an awareness of the influence of Computational Psychology on Artificial Intelligence research
- Be able to demonstrate awareness of ethical concerns around current and potential research at the intersections of Psychology and Artificial intelligence.