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

For academic year: 2026/27 Last Updated: 16 September 2026

LSC-10047 - Introduction to Neuroscience
Coordinator: Amy Turner Duff
Lecture Time:
Level: Level 4
Credits: 30
Study Hours: 300
School Office: 01782 734414

Programme/Approved Electives for 2026/27

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

No

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2026/27

This module will introduce you to the anatomy and function of the nervous system, drawing on information from a range of organisms but primarily aimed at understanding the human nervous system.
You will be given practical exercises to supplement your understanding of both human and animal anatomy and physiology, microscopy and recording techniques using computer based physiology work stations. You will develop skills in scientific writing, data analysis, understanding scientific material, communicating to various audiences, note taking and team working.

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.

Talis Aspire Reading List
Any reading lists will be provided by the start of the course.
http://lists.lib.keele.ac.uk/modules/lsc-10047/lists

Intended Learning Outcomes

identify the principal anatomical subdivisions and structures of the nervous systems, including the development of the nervous system, and discuss their structure-function relationships: 3,4
explain the basic physiological and chemical basis of neural function: 2,3,4
describe the main sensory systems of the human body: 2,3,4
describe specific examples of human nervous system disorders: 3,4
analyse and evaluate experimental studies of neuroscience and present them in graphic form: 1
write a concise report based on lab results using appropriate terminology and subject research: 2
appreciate the teamwork approach, the concepts of leadership and the significance of group dynamics to effective teamwork: 3,5

Study hours

22 x 1h - in situ delivery of tutorials
10 x 1h - in situ small group teaching
22 x 1h - preparation for tutorials/workshops/discussions
22 x 1h - reflection on tutorials/workshops/discussions
20 x 5h - engagement with asynchronous material split across each week
Independent study
6 x 2h - reflection and preparation for core labs linked with content (delivered in LSC-10103)
10 x 2h - reflection on small group teaching and preparation and answering lab book questions
10h - preparation of infographic
20h - preparation of lab report
20h - preparation/revision for final exam
2h - final exam
40h - independent study

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment

1: Creative Brief weighted 10%
Infographic
Students will produce a single-page A4 infographic on a neuroscience topic (broadly equivalent to 500 words). The task requires students to research a topic, synthesise core information, and communicate it visually and concisely for an appropriate audience. The assessment is submitted electronically via the KLE/Turnitin. Preparatory support is provided through a tutorial session before submission, online guidance materials, examples of previous work, and resources on creating effective infographics.

2: Laboratory Report weighted 40%
Lab report (1500 words)
Students will produce a 1500-word laboratory report in a scientific style, based on electrooculography data collected during the associated practical teaching. The report requires students to analyse and present data, describe methods and results appropriately, and interpret findings using relevant scientific terminology and subject literature. The assessment is submitted electronically via the KLE/Turnitin using the assessment template. Preparatory support includes guided tutorial teaching, resources on data analysis and presentation, report-writing guidance, and formative support through related small-group teaching

3: Assignment weighted 30%
Electronic lab book with elements of analysis
Students will submit an electronic lab book containing short-answer exercises based on small group and module topics, plus reflections on module’s small-group teaching sessions. The exercises assess students’ ability to apply neuroscience knowledge, engage with data analysis, interpret information, and communicate scientific ideas clearly. The assessment is submitted as a single electronic file via the KLE/Turnitin using the assessment template. Preparatory and formative support is embedded within the small-group teaching sessions, where students complete activities, ask questions, and receive guidance before final submission

4: Exam weighted 20%
Invigilated online exam (1-hour active working in a 2-hour assessment window)
Students will complete an invigilated online final examination during the May assessment period in an IT suite. The exam will assess knowledge and understanding of core learning materials from across Semesters 1 and 2. It will include a mixture of question types, such as multiple-choice, pairing, and fill-in-the-blanks questions. The test is designed to be completed in approximately 1 hour, with a 2-hour assessment period. Students will complete the test under supervision in a computer room and may bring one sheet of A4 notes. No other materials or online resources will be permitted. Preparatory support includes formative/practice tests on the KLE, revision questions, and problem-solving activities used in teaching sessions.

5: Competence weighted 0%
Engagement with preparation and participation with small group teaching
Students are required to attend and engage appropriately with compulsory small-group teaching sessions across the year. Engagement is judged through attendance and an appropriate level of participation in the scheduled learning activities, including contribution to discussion and interaction with peers and tutors. Students who engage with fewer than 50% of the scheduled small-group sessions will fail the module. Reassessment is by a 500-word reflective summary. Students to reflect on the importance of group work for academic development, supported by appropriate scientific literature

The University undertakes a continuous review of its teaching and research provision to ensure programmes are of a high quality and changes may be made to modules where it is necessary and reasonable to do so. Please be aware that minor changes to modules, such as a change to an individual assessment, can occur up until enrolment, although we endeavour to give you as much notice as possible of any changes. Details about the circumstance in which changes are made to programmes can be found in the Student Agreement, available at: https://www.keele.ac.uk/legalgovernancecompliance/governance/actcharterstatutesordinancesandregulations/studenttermsconditions/

Last Updated: 16 September 2026