Cognition, Genes and Developmental Variability Lab

Our primary research interests relate to cognitive development in both typical development and neurodevelopmental disordered groups, with a specific emphasis on spatial cognition. 

Our aim

The broad aim of the Cognition, Genes and Developmental Variability (CoGDev) Lab is to characterise both typical and atypical development of cognitive functions within a neuroconstructivist framework (i.e. functions are explored within the context of the developing brain).

This involves analytical investigation of spatial performance in both small-scale (e.g. spatial ability, perception, mental imagery, drawing and construction abilities) and large-scale space (navigation and route learning abilities). We are also interested in the intersection between spatial ability and other abilities, such as motor function. Our most recent research interest relates to the relationship between spatial thinking and science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) in primary school age children. 

We have published work on the performance of typically developing children, typical adults, individuals with autism, Down syndrome, Williams syndrome and cerebral palsy.

Spatial reasoning toolkit: Click here to view our spatial reasoning toolkit. In collaboration with the Early Childhood Maths Group, we summarise recent international research into the development of spatial reasoning from birth to seven years of age and have developed this into a trajectory of early learning experiences. The toolkit, which also includes videos, posters and spatial book lists, aims to clarify the mathematics in early spatial experiences, suggesting what to emphasise in order to support the development of children’s spatial reasoning in sensitive, appropriate and playful ways.

Stay connected

@cog_dev_lab

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On the 30th of November 2022, our lab director, Professor Emily Farran, was one of three finalists for the Universi… https://t.co/UneerZU1yI
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Spatial Reasoning skills have been found to correlate with STEM careers positively. After just one week, our lab me… https://t.co/Fs0v76cNVY
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“One of our amazing Lab Members, Dr Emily McDougal, has recently appeared on the PsychologiCALL podcast discussing… https://t.co/h8KgLQjKwX

Latest blog posts

16.05.23

Open Research and Culture Event 2023: Perspectives from Undergraduate Students

By Holly Snellgrove and Emily Clark Several members of the CoGDeV lab attended this year’s Open Research...

21.06.22

Surrey Reproducibility Society Open Research Conference 2022: Perspectives from an Open Research Novice

Sarah Jones from the CoGDeV lab attended this year’s Surrey Reproducibility Society Open Research Conference...