Foundations of Neuroscience 2 (852C1)
Foundations of Neuroscience 2
Module 852C1
Module details for 2024/25.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 7 (Masters)
Module Outline
This module is based on a substantial undergraduate lecture series, Neural Circuits, together with 鈥渏ournal club鈥 style tutorials for Masters students. Foundations of Neuroscience 2 is intended primarily for students who have not specialised in neuroscience at BSc level.
Topics covered include:
- Organisation and modulation of central pattern generator (CPG) circuits
- Advanced techniques for monitoring and manipulating neural circuits
- Modelling of neural circuits
- Sensory and motor functions of spinal cord circuits
- Brain circuits underlying motor control
- Circuits underlying non-associative and associative learning
- Addiction and learning circuits
- Defects in circuits
- Development of neural circuits
Module learning outcomes
Apply concepts and principles underlying circuit function outside the context in which they were first studied, e.g., in a behavioural context. Appreciate that understanding the neural mechanisms involved in the generation of behaviour depends on studying all levels of organization, behavioural, neural and cellular.
Develop knowledge and critical understanding of the well-established principles of how simple and complex neural circuits operate and of the way in which those principles have developed. Understand that the output of neural circuits is controlled by a number of mechanisms that give the brain flexibility. These mechanisms include sensory feedback, neuromodulation and synaptic plasticity.
Obtain a knowledge of the main methods of enquiry into the operation and functions of neural circuits, and an ability to evaluate critically the appropriateness of different approaches to solving problems in the field of neural circuits. Understand the importance of using advanced techniques in tracing and modelling circuit activity.
Have developed skills for integrating material from the primary research and review literature for critically assessing and discussing neuroscientific concepts in essays.
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 100.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Portfolio | T2 Week 7 | 40.00% |
| Essay | T2 Week 11 | 60.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 222222222220 |
| Spring Semester | Seminar | 2 hours | 011010101100 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Dr Ruth Staras
Assess convenor
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Prof Ildiko Kemenes
Assess convenor, Convenor
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Prof George Kemenes
Assess convenor
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