About Dr Sophie Cormack
My undergraduate degree was a BA (Hons) Psychology with Computer Models from the University of Sussex. This was pretty much a degree in cognitive psychology during which I took some modules in computing, philosophy, logic, and linguistics. To continue studying this combination of subjects, I enrolled for a PhD in Cognitive Science and Natural Language at Edinburgh University (taking modules in psychology, philosophy, computational linguistics and formal semantics). I obtained my PhD in 1993 on the representation of entities in text and how pronouns are used to refer back to them.
I started working at the University of Sunderland in 1992. I am now a Senior Lecturer in Cognitive Psychology. Since then I have obtained a Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education, and in 2018, an MSc in Digital Education (Distinction) from the University of Edinburgh by online learning.
Teaching and supervision
My main teaching areas are cognitive psychology and research methods, which I have taught from first year undergraduate to master's level. However, I have taught a great many topics including introduction to psychology, history of psychology and conceptual issues.
I also teach some additional topics which cut across different areas of the discipline such as topics in forensic psychology (e.g., lie detection, eye-witness testimony, false confessions), and biological psychology (e.g. sleep, HRV biofeedback, neurodeterminism).
My main role is as Programme Leader for the online MSc Psychology, and I also developed and lead four online modules, and carry out personal academic tutoring and project supervision.
Interests
I am able to supervise projects in cognitive psychology (with a particular interest in attention), academic procrastination, forensic psychology, perception of time over short time-intervals, and pedagogical projects.
Areas of expertise
- Online learning
- Learning analytics
- Student motivation and procrastination
- Research methods and statistics.
Further information
I am on a 0.8 contract (4 days a week).
I am a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.