BL4281 Animal Communication and Cognition Organiser: Dr. V. Janik The main aim of this course is for you to learn about and discuss a topic that has been a particularly active – and quite controversial – one: animal communication and cognition. One reason for this is that it has special relevance to ourselves because communication and cognition are things we are particularly good at. For clues as to their evolution, we must look about among various groups of birds and mammals. The course starts out by looking at definitions of all relevant terms. We then focus on forms of complexity in communication such as vocal learning, syntax and referentiality. Many case studies will be considered and we will investigate what explanation models can be harnessed to understand the results. To take this module you must have taken the junior honours Animal Behaviour module. The course will include topics such as: Definitions of Terminology Information Theory and Animal Communication Comprehension, Usage and Production Learning in Vocal Communication Reference in Animal Signals Syntax The Evolution of Complexity in Animal Communication The Role of a Theory of Mind in Communication Human Language A model system in the study of vocal learning: the zebra finch Format: There will be an introductory lecture but the course is mainly based on student discussions. Each student will summarize one of the topics for the whole class and then lead the discussion about this topic. This module involves a lot of reading of the original literature on this topic. Teaching: The module is run once a week throughout the first semester. There will be a 2 hour session each week. Flow diagram showing steps in the production of synthetic stimuli Assessment: CA =50%, 2 hour exam = 50 %. CA will be based on the talk and a hand-out. Learning objectives: To achieve the skill of critically reading and constructively criticising the primary literature in animal behaviour To achieve knowledge and understanding of the current literature on animal communication and cognition. Background reading Janik, V. M. & Slater, P. J. B. 2000. The different roles of social learning in vocal communication. Anim. Behav. 60, 1-11