Recently, the School of Psychology (SoP) at Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) hosted a guest lecture on cognitive neuropsychology and social psychology. 

Coordinated by Ms Subashini Ganesan (Lecturer, SoP at APU) and Ms Izlin Tham Adam Tham (Lecturer, SoP at APU), the guest lecture attracted students eager to deepen their understanding of the biological and social dimensions of human behaviour through insights shared by experienced academics. 

The guest lecture featured esteemed guest lecturers Dr Nabeelah Ahmed Omarjee, Senior Lecturer in Psychology at De Montfort University (DMU) Leicester, and Dr Simon Goodman, Associate Professor at DMU Leicester. 

Dr Nabeelah’s Session: Cognitive Neuropsychology

During the first session, Dr Nabeelah introduced students to the field of cognitive neuropsychology, focusing on the relationship between brain structures and cognitive functioning.

Through engaging explanations and real-world examples, students gained deeper insight into how neurological processes influence memory, emotions, behaviour, perception, and psychological functioning.

Also, by linking theoretical concepts to practical applications, Dr Nabeelah encouraged students to explore the role of cognitive neuropsychology in understanding neurological and psychological conditions, while appreciating the complexities of brain-behaviour relationships.

The session further highlighted how disruptions to specific brain regions can affect everyday cognitive abilities and behavioural responses, providing students with a clearer understanding of the practical implications of neurological impairments on daily functioning and psychological well-being. 

Dr Simon’s Session: Social Psychology

Building on the biological foundations discussed earlier, the second session saw Dr Simon introduce students to key concepts in social psychology.

His presentation explored how social environments, interpersonal relationships, communication, and societal influences shape individuals’ thoughts, emotions, attitudes, and behaviours.

Through insightful discussions, students were encouraged to critically examine the role of social contexts in influencing psychological experiences, while developing a deeper appreciation of how social forces shape individual behaviour and interpersonal interactions in everyday life.

The session provided opportunities for students to reflect on contemporary social issues and consider how social psychological theories can be applied to better understand human interactions and group dynamics across diverse social contexts.

Student Perspectives

A few perspective from students:

1. Sanjhanaa Shashi Tharan: “The guest lecture stimulated my interest in human cognition and behaviour, while providing me with fresh perspectives on psychology and valuable knowledge that i hope to apply in future research, as well as share with others to deepen their understanding of the field.”
2. Sherlyn Suresh: “What stood out most to me during the guest lecture was how both cognitive neuropsychology and social psychology were presented in an engaging and insightful manner, helping me understand how different psychological perspectives can be connected to form a more holistic view of human behaviour, while also strengthening my interest in the field.”
3. Mashaal Deen: “Gaining deeper insights from cognitive neuropsychology and social psychology during the guest lecture made the sessions highly engaging and thought-provoking, while also broadening my understanding of cognitive processes and encouraging me to reflect on alternative perspectives in explaining human behaviour and contemporary social issues.”
4. Melovia Felim: “Gaining exposure through the guest lecture offered me a clearer and more in-depth understanding of how neurological disorders affect individuals in real-world contexts, while also strengthening my ability to critically evaluate psychology research and its practical applications in understanding human behaviour and cognition.”
    

Strengthening Psychological Understanding

The guest lecture successfully provided students with an enriching academic platform to deepen their understanding of psychology, particularly through the interconnected study of cognitive neuropsychology and social psychology.

The sessions created meaningful opportunities for students to engage with complex concepts related to brain function, cognition, social influence, and human behaviour, while encouraging them to think beyond textbook knowledge.

It further highlighted the importance of integrating biological and social approaches in understanding psychological phenomena, enabling students to develop a more well-rounded and applied appreciation of the discipline.