Network Models, Representation and Consciousness

Course manual 2024/2025

Course content

The course will start with a short introduction in which basic knowledge about the electrophysiological functioning of neurons will be refreshed and will be continued with a more detailed introduction about different neural network models. This involves digital computer simulations of neurons with a specific (electrical) activity and connections with other neurons within a network. The student learns which components of a modelled neuron correspond with physiological parameters such as membrane potential and firing rate. We address which learning principles can be used to change connections between neurons en in which way this plasticity leads to physiological modification of neural properties. We also address relevant basal mathematics which is needed to understand the underlying elements of the course. Network model features will be compared with the actual behaviour of groups of neurons within the brain during cognitive tasks.
The course addresses which cognitive tasks can be executed by elementary networks, such as pattern recognition, classification of inputs in different categories and reward-dependent learning. This subject will be coupled to a discussion about the brain's capability to represent information in different modes, associated to either conscious or non-conscious processing.
Conscious representations will be discussed in the context of sensory modalities, thalamocortical systems, whereas non-conscious information processing will be illustrated by considering the cerebellum and hypothalamus. This discussion will lead us to debate the importance of multimodal integration, and the pro's and con's of several mind-brain theories, such as those involving Information Theory, Functionalism, Eliminative Materialism and Neurorepresentationalism. We will review neurophysiological correlates of consciousness, as well as requirements neural systems should fulfill to qualify as being conscious.

This course consists of lectures and practicals with computer simulations, discussions and an individual essay and presentation assignment.

Study materials

Literature

• Kandel et al.,Principles of Neural Science, McGraw-Hill (latest edition)

• Gazzaniga et al., The Biology of the Mind, Norton & Co. (latest edition)

• The brain’s representational power - on consciousness and the integration of modalities, C. Pennartz, MIT Press (first edition).

Objectives

• Analyze computer models of neural networks
• Describe relationships between network functioning, representation, consciousness and other cognitive processes
• Explain the extent to which neural network models are biologically plausible
• Discuss implications of network models for different theories about the mind-brain problem, and in particular consciousness
• Use techniques to digitally execute and modify computer simulations
• Perform oral and written presentations on neural network models and theories of consciousness

Teaching methods

• Lecture
• Computer lab session/practical training
• Presentation/symposium
• Self-study
• Working independently on e.g. a project or thesis
• Supervision/feedback meeting

Learning activities

Attendance

Requirements of the programme concerning attendance (OER-B):

1. Attendance during practical components exercises is mandatory.

Additional requirements for this course:

1. Attendance during practical components exercises is mandatory.
2. The student may be absent in 2 out of 12 seminars.

Assessment

Inspection of assessed work

A partial grade will be published for the computer practical test, upon which the student can receive feedback.

Assignments

There will be an essay assignment, both with a group (presentation) component, and an individually written piece of text.

Feedback is provided by a tutor; there will be a grade for the (oral) presentation and for the written text.

Fraud and plagiarism

The 'Regulations governing fraud and plagiarism for UvA students' applies to this course. This will be monitored carefully. Upon suspicion of fraud or plagiarism the Examinations Board of the programme will be informed. For the 'Regulations governing fraud and plagiarism for UvA students' see: www.student.uva.nl

Course structure

Additional information

Further information will be posted on Canvas (course program, etc.)

Contact information

Coordinator

• prof. dr. C.M.A. Pennartz