LSC-10047 - Introduction to Neuroscience

Coordinator: Marta U Woloszynowska-Fraser

Lecture Time: See Timetable...

Level: Level 4

Credits: 30

Study Hours: 300

School Office: 01782 734414

Programme/Approved Electives for 2020/21

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2020/21

This module teaches students about the basic anatomy and function of the nervous system, drawing on information from a range of organisms but primarily aimed at understanding the human nervous system. Included in this module are practical exercises that introduce students to human and animal anatomy and physiology, microscopy and recording techniques using computer based physiology work stations. Students also experiment on the main senses using anatomical, physiological and behavioural methods and learn a range of other skills useful in a variety of different jobs.
Academic content:
Neurones and glia: the cells of the nervous system
The human nervous system (organization)
Transport of ions and molecules
The resting potential and action potential
Transmission across synapses
Muscle contraction and its reflex control
Sensory receptors and sensory systems
Molecular neuroscience and neurological disorders
Development of the nervous system
Evolution of the nervous system

Aims

To provide a general description of the architecture and the physiology of nervous systems, the neural basis of behaviour, a brief discussion of the senses and concepts of development and the evolution of the nervous system.

Intended Learning Outcomes

identify the principal anatomical subdivisions and structures of the nervous systems: 2,4
describe the main sensory systems of the human body: 2,4
discuss structure function relationships in the nervous system: 1,2,4
describe specific examples of human nervous system disorders: 2,4
design, execute and report experimental studies of neuroscience: 3
write a concise essay on a relevant topic using appropriate terminology and subject research: 1
explain the basic physiological and chemical basis of neural function: 1,2,4

Study hours

Lecture (37) hours
Practical (51) hours
Class test (2)
Exam (3) hours
Self study and preparation for assessment (207) hours

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment

1: Essay weighted 15%
1000 word essay
For this assessment, students are asked to research a specific topic and then write a 1000 word essay. Students will be given guidance in a tutorial session prior to the hand in and substantial on-line support.

2: Online Tasks weighted 20%
Online test
This paper will be released as a timed test in Blackboard. Students will find a link to this test on KLE on the day of the assessment. Once started, students will be given 2 hrs to complete. This is 1 hour more than we expect most students will actually need. International students will be asked to notify the School if they need an extension due to different time zones.

3: Laboratory Book weighted 15%
Laboratory notebook with some experimental reports.
Data and short simple experiments for home work will be provided on KLE along with an explanatory tutorial on how to analyse and present data.

4: Online Tasks weighted 50%
Online test
This paper will be released as a timed test in Blackboard. Students will find a link to this test on KLE on the day of the assessment. Once started, students will be given 3 hrs to complete. This is 1 hour more than we expect most students will actually need. International students will be asked to notify the School if they need an extension due to different time zones.

LSC-10047 - Module Specification School of Life Sciences Faculty of Natural Sciences

LSC-10047 - Module Specification
School of Life Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences