Course Catalogue

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In this course, you will explore the development of the central nervous system from early embryological stages into adulthood, learn about the senses, cognition, and the most recent developments in experimental neuroscience laboratory techniques and how these are applied to experimental design in neuroscience. Neuroscience 3A & 3B build on the Level 2 Life Sciences courses, developing an in-depth understanding of the structure and function of the Central Nervous System, underpinned by a programme of laboratory practicals and discussion of current research and clinical implications.

This course will consist of five teaching blocks, each consisting of approximately 12 one-hour lectures and supporting labs and workshops, lasting 2-3 hours in most cases. Five one-hour tutorials sessions and sessions on scientific skills and graduate attributes will also run throughout the semester. The timetable will vary week to week to accommodate staff and resource availability and meet the educational needs of the block.

Normally, this course is only open to students admitted to Year-3 of a programme for which this is a compulsory course.

None

The course will be assessed by means of a 3-hour examination (50%) in the spring diet and in-course assessment (50%) consisting of a research report (20%), a poster assignment (10%) and a literature review (20%). 

Reassessments are normally available for all courses, except those which contribute to the Honours classification. For non-Honours courses, students are offered reassessment in all or any of the components of assessment if the satisfactory (threshold) grade for the overall course is not achieved at the first attempt. This is normally grade D3 for undergraduate students and grade C3 for postgraduate students. Exceptionally it may not be possible to offer reassessment of some coursework items, in which case the mark achieved at the first attempt will be counted towards the final course grade. Any such exceptions for this course are described below. 

The aims of the course are:

■ To provide a broad-based knowledge and understanding of the central nervous system;

■ To develop an understanding of basic practical skills relevant to neuroscience-focused laboratory techniques;

■ To develop skills relating to the systematic acquisition and analysis of factual information and data;

■ To develop the ability to solve problems and to critically analyse, interpret and discuss factual information and data;

■ To provide opportunities to practise and improve written and oral communication skills.

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

■ explain the central facts and the experimental basis of modern Neuroscience, including neurodevelopment, advancements in neuropharmacology and pathology of brain disorders;

■ appraise the use of modern technologies for the study of neuroscience, including molecular techniques;

■ demonstrate an understanding of practical skills in fundamental anatomical techniques including dissection, histology, research skills and molecular methods;

■ communicate experimental, interpretative and ethical aspects of science, using oral presentations, written work and information technology;

■ plan an experiment and apply appropriate methods to analyse experimental data;

■ solve problems of a numerical or logical nature using statistics where appropriate;

■ identify and critically evaluate relevant scientific literature.

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.