Module overview
This module conveys the concept of neuroscience as an integrative discipline by providing a description of mammalian nervous system function from molecular aspects of synaptic signalling to information integration and system level processing.
Lectures will be accompanied by practicals, some of which involve the use of animal tissue, with alternatives in place if required to meet minimum learning outcomes.
Linked modules
BIOL1024 AND BIOL1025 AND (BIOL1026 OR BIOL1028)
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- solve problems relating to qualitative and quantitative information
- work with, and within, a group towards defined outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- Describe the integration of synaptic information and action potential coding
- Identify the mechanisms of nociception and and neural processing of painful stimuli
- Describe the hierarchy of neuronal circuitry involved in motor systems
- Describe the function of excitatory and inhibitory neurons, synaptic potentials
- Outline molecular aspects of synaptic transmission
- Analyse quantitative aspects of neural function, including the use of the Nernst equation to calculate reversal potentials and to predict the effects of changes in membrane permeability on neuronal excitability
- Describe the basic anatomy of the nervous system
- Explain the process of mammalian brain development and the formation of neural circuits
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- use a range of neuroscience laboratory equipment to conduct experiments
- record and analyse neuroscience data
Syllabus
Indicative topics include
- Introduction to basic neuroanatomy and neurophysiology
- Brain development
- Molecular basis of synaptic function
- Synaptic integration
- Systems neuroscience: motor systems, nociception, including transfer of information from the periphery to the CNS
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
This module consists of 23 lectures, 3 three-hour practical classes, a workshop and 117 hours of independent study.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Practical classes and workshops | 10 |
| Lecture | 23 |
| Independent Study | 117 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
Liqun Luo. Principles of Neuroscience. Garland.
Purves et al. Neuroscience. Sinauer.
Assessment
Formative
This is how we’ll give you feedback as you are learning. It is not a formal test or exam.
Practical write-upsSummative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Practical | 20% |
| Written assessment | 80% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Online test | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External