This course introduces students into the major skills necessary to apply (cognitive) psychology to real-world problems. It will prepare students for the most relevant aspects of dealing with “the outside world” of companies, organisations, consultancies and research institutes.

A variety of approaches aimed at enhancing cognitive performance (e.g. vigilance, creativity, memory, productivity) is critically evaluated during this course. You will learn which techniques are applied, whether they really work, and how this is tested. The mechanisms behind cognitive enhancement are discussed in both a behavioural and a psychobiological framework. In the workgroup meetings the various topics will be elaborated upon and critically evaluated in oral presentations and (prepared) group discussions.

In which settings can theoretical knowledge be applied to enhance productivity, creativity, memory, well-being and self-regulation? The course focuses on the translation from cognitive theories to entries for cognitive enhancement in a variety of (job) contexts. The knowledge acquired here can be applied by (human resource) managers, educators and people working with older adults; in product development, governmental policy and public interest.

New technologies provide the means to build wonderful interactive software products to shape the world to our needs. However, if not designed well, they can be a source of frustration and annoyance. Knowledge of human factors (e.g. human performance, ergonomic design, and aesthetics) is crucial to make the right design decisions.

This course provides an overview of cognitive issues involved in designing, using and evaluating interactive software products. Recent approaches in the academic field of Human Computer Interaction are discussed.