Ashvanti Valji
Research student, School of Psychology
- Email:
- valjia@cardiff.ac.uk
- Location:
- Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre, Maindy Road, Cardiff, CF24 4HQ
Research summary
I am interested in using structural and functional MRI methods to investigate the neural mechanisms of intrinsic motivation, learning and memory consolidation. My PhD project will focus on curiosity, a form of intrinsic motivation, and its contribution to our everyday learning of new information. In order to better understand the differences which exist between individuals and states of curiosity my project will also examine the role personality and/or curiosity traits play on learning.
Teaching summary
Postgraduate tutor – Supporting Year 1 Psychology students in developing and improving skills in writing scientific reports through deliverance of tutorials and feedback on their marked practical reports.
Research interests
Research topics and related papers
I am interested in using structural and functional MRI methods to investigate the neural mechanisms of intrinsic motivation, learning and memory consolidation. My PhD project will focus on curiosity, a form of intrinsic motivation, and its contribution to our everyday learning of new information. In order to better understand the differences which exist between individuals and states of curiosity my project will also examine the role personality/curiosity traits play on learning.
Funding
School of Psychology, Cardiff University, 3 year-funded PhD studentship (2016-2019)
Research group
Neuroscience
CUBRIC
Memory and Motivation Lab:
- Matthias Gruber (Psychology/Neuroscience, Cardiff University)
- Vera Dehmelt (PhD student, Psychology/Neuroscience, Cardiff University)
Research collaborators
2019
- Gruber, M. J., Valji, A. and Ranganath, C. 2019. Curiosity and learning: a neuroscientific perspective. In: Renniger, K. A. and Hidi, S. eds. The Cambridge Handbook of Motivation and Learning.. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, pp. 397-417.
2018
- Yamaguchi, M., Valji, A. and Wolohan, F. 2018. Top-down contributions to attention shifting and disengagement: a template model of visual attention. Journal of Experimental Psychology: General 147(6), pp. 859-887. (10.1037/xge0000393)