Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

The module assumes knowledge of excitable cells, sensory & motor systems, neuroanatomy, basic cellular biology & physiology, and statistics as taught in the first and second year of the Biomedical Sciences BSc Honours course. The module builds on basic knowledge of the cell nervous system as taught in the nervous system block of year I (ie: Cell Biology).

Co Requisite Comment

Whilst not an essential co-requisite, the module supports and is supported by CMB2007 Human Anatomy.

Aims

Actions, cognition, emotions, sensations and perceptions are controlled by the nervous system. Consequently, it is key to understanding the structure and function of the nervous system. Neuroscience deals with this and covers what is beyond and how this contribute to the functioning of the nervous system.

The aims of the module are to enable the student to learn and understand the;

•basic principles of how the nervous system works,
•the importance of the nervous system in controlling conscious and unconscious motor and sensory system, behaviour, cognition etc.
•the basic principles of research in neuroscience and in cellular, sensory & motor system neuroscience.

Outline Of Syllabus

The module has been structured into three well defined strands:

Cellular Neuroscience – which will include:

•review cellular neuroanatomy and neurophysiology

•excitatory and inhibitory synaptic function

•research methods applied to cellular and systems neuroscience


Sensory System – Sensation & Cognition – which will include:

•vision, motion, hearing, language and multisensory integration


Motor System – which will include:

•principles of motor control at cortical, subcortical and spinal levels

•overcoming damage to the motor system

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

On successful completion of the module students will be able to:

K1. describe the basic principles of how the nervous system works

K2. explain the importance of the nervous system in controlling conscious and unconscious motor and sensory system, behaviour, cognition etc.

K3. review the basic principles of research in neuroscience

Intended Skill Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:

S1. apply the scientific method and acquire knowledge of cellular, sensory, and motor neuroscience through self-guided and independent reading, and deductive and inductive analysis and thinking

S2. apply written communication skills to explain neuroscience problems

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures will provide students with key information to achieve the learning outcomes of the module. The Q&A sessions will encourage an increased understanding of the material through discussion. There will also be an essay-writing workshop to prepare students for the in course and final essay-style exam questions, and a small group workshop to prepare for the in course extended essay. Private study and active learning on part of the students are essential. These will allow students to extend their knowledge through reading of, for instance, textbooks, journal articles and other recommended material.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The examination provides evidence of individual knowledge and understanding of the topics. The extended essay supports the students’ development in finding and critically analysing current literature and their written communication skills.

General Notes

N/A