SCM: FAQ

Do I need previous knowledge of cognitive science?

Previous knowledge of cognitive science is not expected for this class.  That being said, we do dive right in to graduate-level readings and discussions about both theoretical and empirical aspects of the discipline.  If there are broad concepts that you do not understand right away, it is expected that you will take the initiative to either ask about them (in class or on the course discussion forums) or look them up yourself.

Do I need previous knowledge of probability, statistics, and linear algebra?

While the course does not have specific math prerequisites, many of the papers we will read include models with substantial mathematical components (e.g., neural networks, Bayesian models, etc.).  While you are not expected to understand every equation in every paper, it will be helpful to have some broad familiarity with probability, statistics, and linear algebra, and with general mathematical notation.

In addition, you will need to develop a more thorough understanding of the papers that you present and write your essay on.  If there are large mathematical parts of these papers that you do not understand, you may need to spend some time brushing up on these topics.

Do I need previous knowledge of programming?

This course does not have formal programming components or assignments.  However, some familiarity with programming will be very helpful in learning about computational cognitive models and in completing occasional class activities.  If you are less familiar with programming, you may want to consider taking an introductory programming course as part of your degree program (and/or taking an online class or learning on your own).

Learning some programming basics will be of enormous value not just for this course but also in the future, for virtually any cognitive-science-related or other STEM-related careers.

Do I have to buy any books?

Nope!  All of the readings are be available online via the course Learn page.

Do I need to attend the class sessions in person?

Yes!  Because a large portion of this course is designed around in-class discussions, presentations, and group activities, in-person attendance and participation is a key part of completing course objectives.

What if I have another course that conflicts with SCM?

Occasionally, students may have another course that conflicts with part of SCM.  We will consider these on a case-by-case basis.  If warranted (e.g., the other course is also required/essential, and it only conflicts with a small portion of SCM overall), we can arrange for missed portfolio segments to be completed outside of class, but only by prior arrangement with the instructor.

Instructions on how to contact instructors about potential course conflicts will be sent out at the start of each semester.

What if I get sick, or my cat gets sick, or I have an interview, or something else comes up that prevents my attendance?

Of course, things can and will come up.  No problem.  You do not need to let us know in advance.  Just take care of yourself, your cat, and your other things, and we will look forward to seeing you the next time.

A few absences each semester will not affect your course grade.  In particular, each semester will include 20 sets of portfolio entries.  We will drop the 5 lowest portfolio marks, including missing portfolios.  This means that each semester, 5 of the 20 portfolios can be missed with no detriment to marks---no questions asked, and no need to specially request this, it will apply to everyone.

What if I get sick on the day of my presentation?

If you are ill on the day of your presentation, you can request to reschedule one time. That said, exceptional circumstances can happen; please talk to your Student Adviser and they can help guide you through the process of applying, if needed.

I accidentally submitted the wrong file(s) for an assignment. Can I send you the correct file after the deadline?

If you submitted a partially complete assignment before the deadline, that is what will be marked. If you submitted an empty assignment or the wrong file before the deadline, you can submit after the deadline but it will be treated as a late submission.

After you submit an assignment, download and open what you submitted to be sure you submitted the correct file.

Do I need to pass all assignments to pass the course?

Yes.  You must earn a passing mark (at least 40%) in each of the 4 course assessments (portfolio #1, portfolio #2, presentation, and essay) in order to pass the course.

There are lots of pages of readings. Are they all required?

Yes.  This is a graduate-level seminar course  😃

That being said, you are not expected to understand every word of every paper.  Sometimes you might be busy and only have time for a faster skim rather than a deep reading.

One of the key skills that you can develop in science is to be able to skim a technical paper and distill the important points very efficiently.  This skill does not happen by magic!  Like any skill, it is acquired and can be improved through practice.  (Which is exactly what this course will give you plenty of!)

If I didn't do the reading one day, should I skip class so I can catch up?

No!  You should definitely still come to class, for two reasons:

First, you can practice your ultra-fast skimming skills; how much can you learn about a paper in just five minutes?  You can also practice another great professional skill, which is thinking and writing about something on your feet, without preparation.  (Note: There is a difference between just making up nonsense that sounds good but means nothing, which is not that impressive, versus actually being able to come up with systematic, reasoned opinions and arguments on the fly, which IS impressive, and which is also a skill that can be acquired and improved with practice.)

Second, you'll still be able to engage in all of the class activities for that day, e.g., watching your peer's presentations, taking part in discussions, etc.  Spending time together with the instructors and your peers will be more valuable for your learning than staying home and reading that one paper.