PSYC3023 Special Topics in Psychology

Title of Project Understanding Dorsal Stream using Visually Guided Reach Supervisor Associate Professor Bruce Christensen Supervisor Contact Details [email protected] Project Background Research has shown that the brain accomplishes vision via two separate neural pathways: a dorsal visual stream for processing and guiding movement and a ventral visual stream for processing the static features of objects (e.g., colour, texture). People with Schizophrenia consistently demonstrate impairments associated with the dorsal stream. However, scientists have recently discovered that the dorsal stream can be further divided into two sub-streams and that the integrity of these sub-streams can be measured by carefully analysing various kinematic aspects of reach-to-grasp movements. Whether the Schizophrenia-related impairment in dorsal stream function differentially impacts one or the other of theses two sub-streams remains unknown. Furthermore, since motoric manipulation of objects in one’s environment is a fundamental way in which humans interface with their physical world, such deficits may account, at least in part, for the prodigious and well-documented functional deficits (e.g., poor vocational functioning) associated with Schizophrenia. Therefore, this project aims to utilise a visually guided reach paradigm to measure dorsal stream integrity and identify more specific brain regions involved in visuomotor tasks.

We intend to use a magnetic motion tracking system to measure hand position and orientation whilst participants are asked to engage in visually guided movement; either reach toward or grasp a rectangular object. Kinematic data from the magnetic motion tracking system will be used to assess the relative integrity of dorsal stream correlates. The first study will be conducted on undergraduate students.

Your primary role in this project will be to assist with the initial set- up and operation of the magnetic motion tracking system. In addition you will recruit and run pilot participants through the experiment (under guidance). In preparation for this, you will be guided through theoretical framework upon which this project was developed and become familiar with the relevant literature in the field. You will also participate in collaborative discussions and the development of the experiment.

The course will run during first semester with contact hours to be negotiated. Time and duration of project Semester 1, 2017 Pre-requisites Proposed Assessment The assessment for the course will be negotiable, but will probably consist of:

Assessment Piece Weighting Due Date A 1500-2000 word lab report in 50% TBA standard APA format. This would be similar in style to a journal article. A presentation to a small group of 30% TBA people of approximately 30 minutes in which you discuss the project, the background and the data collection process. A mark for your engagement with 20% TBA the project

Outcomes  You will gain an understanding of, and experience in conducting quantitative analyses.  You will have the opportunity to participate in a research project, and you will develop skills in teamwork and collaboration as part of this research team  You will be associated with scientific articles and publications that arise from the research.  You will have the opportunity to participate in ‘real’ research which will provide excellent experience for honours and postgraduate projects Any additional information Places Available 1