Eye Movements and Visual Cognition

Why study Eye Movements and Visual Cognition at Dundee?

The School of Psychology has recently established a centre of excellence for eye movement research; the MSc Eye Movements and Visual Cognition will be closely linked to this new centre. For many psychology researchers, the recording of eye movements has become the preferred method for studying the human mind; our eye fixations and eye movements reveal much about how humans process the information that surrounds them.

In recent years, the use of this method has greatly advanced our theoretical understanding of human perception, attention, decision making and language processing. In addition, eye movement recording is being used in many practical applications such as for the study of consumer behaviour and human-computer interaction.

Students will receive a thorough background in models of eye movement control, the use of eye movement recording as a method for investigating theories of human perception, attention, decision making and language processing, and its use in practical applications.

The course is affiliated to our Centre for Oculomotor Research (CORE)

The School of Psychology also has much specialised equipment, dedicated laboratories and world class research facilities. These include EEG labs, many eye tracking systems, 2D and 3D movement tracking systems, and offsite fMRI access via the Clinical Research Centre at Ninewells Teaching Hospital.Learn more about our research facilities »

Every full-time MSc student in the department is entitled to use computer facilities available in the Psychology department and throughout the University. We provide access to all the basic software tools that you are likely to need for your MSc.

This course will enable you to:

• pursue and develop the advanced study of research methods in Psychology and in particular to address contemporary issues of epistemology, data collection, measurement and data analysis
• approach problems in research by critical evaluation of existing psychological paradigms and research literature and to apply this to current theoretical or applied issues in Psychology
• develop advanced research skills which will be relevant to policy and practice in the workplace
• develop and demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills in research design, methodology and statistical analysis
• develop and demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of current research in a specialised field of experimental or applied Psychology
• engage in the analysis, synthesis, planning, execution and evaluation of research at an advanced level
• make an original contribution to scientific knowledge, methodology or practice in a research project either grounded in experimental psychology or in an applied area relevant to the learner's employment
• develop and practice dissemination and presentation skills to peers and to wider academic and professional audiences
• provide an advanced understanding of scientific issues in the chosen topic specialisation.

"I enjoyed all aspects of the course, especially the opportunity to conduct two independent pieces of research. Furthermore, I found the taught modules very helpful and a good basis for every researcher. Most importantly, I enjoyed the support of both staff and students in a highly collaborative environment"
MSc student, 2011

The course acts as a first year of research training for students intending to continue with postgraduate research on eye movements or related disciplines. It is also of benefit if you wish to use eye movement recording outside the academic environment, for example to analyse consumer behaviour.

We have a close postgraduate community with a diverse combination of nationalities. The School runs a Postgraduate seminar and a departmental seminar twice weekly throughout teaching semesters, with invited speakers to the seminars. These seminars are a great way to broaden your awareness of contemporary issues within the field of Psychology, to present your own work, and to network with other postgraduate students.

The School of Psychology also has its own facebook group, where you can find out more about their activities.