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LSC-20135 - Module Specification
School of Life Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

For academic year: 2025/26 Last Updated: 04 December 2025

LSC-20135 - Neurophysiology
Coordinator: Amy Turner Duff
Lecture Time: See Timetable...
Level: Level 5
Credits: 15
Study Hours: 150
School Office: 01782 734414

Programme/Approved Electives for 2025/26

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

No

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2025/26

Neurophysiology is important for understanding how the brain processes information and regulates behaviour. In this module, you will examine the physiological mechanisms behind neuronal activity, including membrane properties and ion channels, which are crucial for generating action potentials. Synaptic transmission and plasticity will explain how neurons communicate and how learning occurs. You will also explore sensory system physiology and functional connectivity, which are key to understanding perception, cognition, and how disruptions lead to neurological disorders.

Aims
This module aims to offer an in-depth understanding of the neurophysiological principles governing neuronal signalling, network activity, and information processing in the brain. Emphasis is placed on the roles of membrane properties, ion channels, and synaptic plasticity in maintaining network stability and sensory integration, along with exploration of how dysfunctions in these areas contribute to specific brain disorders.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Explain the functional properties of neuronal membranes, ion channels, and the generation and propagation of action potentials, including their roles in communications within neural circuits: 1,2
Evaluate the mechanisms of synaptic transmission and plasticity, including how excitatory and inhibitory balance is maintained in neuronal networks, and analyse their implications for learning, memory, and sensory, motor, and executive functions: 1,2
Describe and discuss how synaptic mechanisms and network dynamics contribute to the overall functioning of the nervous system, including sensory processing and cognition.: 1,2
Communicate key principles of neurophysiology in a clear and structured way, using appropriate scientific evidence.: 1

Study hours

Active learning:
30 hours engagement with asynchronous material (engagement with short lecture pre-recordings, note taking and directed reading across 10 topics)
20 hours interactive tutorial building on asynchronous materials
Independent study:
35 hours expected for planning and writing integrated research essay
63 hours of private study time
2 hours online assessment

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment

1: Essay weighted 70%
Integrated Research Essay (~1500 words)
Students will have the opportunity to select from a range of essay titles which will be aligned with multiple key module themes. Essays should include an infographic and be linked to specific papers/figures discussed within teaching materials and active learning sessions. Students will have the opportunity to submit a 500-word formative essay plan half way though the semester for feedback. The final submission will be a 1500-word essay submitted via Turnitin at the end of the module. This structure aims to encourage continuous engagement and integrate learning across the module.

2: Open Book Assessment weighted 30%
Online Open Book Class Test (1 hour active working with a 2 hour assessment window)
Online open book class test (1-hour test in a 2-hour assessment window) 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. This test will comprise a number of multiple choice and short answer questions, designed to test application of module learning.

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: 04 December 2025