Introduction to Neuroscience

Summary module description:
Introduction to Neuroscience

Aims:
The aim of the module is that students should learn basic information, terminology and concepts relating to the structure and function of the nervous system of humans (and other mammals); to become familiar with some applications of neuroscience for our understanding of human perception, substance abuse and abnormal psychology. Students will also be introduced to the methods used to study the brain including anatomical, physiological and functional imaging techniques.

Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module the student will be able to:
Show knowledge of the structure and function of the human nervous system, in a variety of forms such as written examination and multiple-choice test answers.
Show knowledge of a range of methodologies used to study the brain, and discuss that advantages and disadvantages of each, in a variety of forms such as written examination and multiple-choice test answers.
Show knowledge of which methodology would be most appropriate to test different questions and for a variety of populations, in a variety of forms such as written examination and multiple-choice test answers.

Additional outcomes:
The module also provides the option to submit written short answers on a neuroscience topic, and to receive feedback on the student's level of performance prior to exams.

Outline content:

Lectures cover:
(a) The central nervous system of humans and other mammals: structure, function and basic neuropharmacology.
(b) Methodologies used to study the brain
(c) Applications of neuroscience to topics such as visual perception, developmental psychology, motivation, substance abuse and mental illness

This module is supported by optional small-group tutorials, that enable students to seek clarification on issues covered in lectures and to provide written short answers on topics relevant to the module.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
The module is taught via 10 50-minute lectures, each followed by a further 50-minute online discussion forum, and supported by optional tutorial classes and recommended reading.

Teaching methods include the following:
(a) Lectures
(b) Online discussion forum following lectures
(c) Recommended reading from texts
(d) Optional small-group tutorial teaching on topics covered in lectures
(e) Feedback from your tutor on an optional short answer response to a question on a topic relevant to the module
(f) Revision lecture in summer term

Summative Assessment Methods:
Written exam 100%

Other information on summative assessment:
This module is examined by a 1.5-hour written Summer Exam. The exam requires students to answer a set of multiple choice questions requiring knowledge of every lecture on the module, and to answer four short answer questions on topics covered in the module.

Formative assessment methods:
Students have the opportunity to engage in small-group tutorial meetings to discuss the lecture material and prepare to write short answer questions on this material, in practice for the summer exam. The short answer questions are optional, but tutors will provide formative feedback on all questions submitted, in order to help students prepare for the exam.

Penalties for late submission:
The Module Convener will apply the following penalties for work submitted late, in accordance with the University policy.
where the piece of work is submitted up to one calendar week after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for the piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: http://www.reading.ac.uk/web/FILES/qualitysupport/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Length of examination:
1.5 hours

Requirements for a pass:
A mark of 40% overall