Module overview
This module seeks to expose students to research level studies in a number of areas related to the function of the nervous system, necessary to understand the pathophysiology of neurological conditions. The course will describe CNS development, and the structure and functions of neural cell populations; research into the mechanisms underlying learning & memory; and analyses of neural circuits controlling behaviour. Following this module, students will be expected to be able to integrate their understanding of cellular properties into coherent concepts of system level functions and be able to evaluate examples of current research in this field.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Describe the processes underlying non-visual light perception and circadian control of behaviour.
- Describe the structural and functional properties of the different neural cell types and their interactions and dependencies, including different classes of neurones, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes and microglia;
- Discuss the implications of a sample of current research in this field for our understanding of nervous system function.
- Describe the molecular mechanisms underlying long term changes in synaptic function in learning and memory in mammals and other organisms;
- Describe the organisation and function of neural circuits underlying defined behaviours;
- Outline the overall development and mature structure of the CNS;
Syllabus
- Nervous system development
- Structure and function of neural cell populations
- Learning and memory
- Neural Control circuits
- Non-visual light perception and circadian rhythms
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Formal lectures, research paper seminars and independent study of selected reference materials
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Seminar | 4 |
| Lecture | 24 |
| Independent Study | 122 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Assessment
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Written assessment | 65% |
| Literature review with presentation | 35% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Written assessment | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External