PYMPRN-Principles of Neurobiology

Module Provider: Psychology
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites: BSc level knowledge of Genetics/Neurobiology/Biological Psychology/Neuroscience
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2020/1

Email: k.n.harvey@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:
The purpose of this module is to provide a robust grounding in the principles of neurobiology, and the key experimental techniques that are used in it. The topics include neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, pharmacology, and genetics.

Aims:
The aim of this module is to introduce students to key principles of neurobiology that are fundamental for an integrative understanding of brain function. The topics will cover biochemistry, genetics, physiology, and neuroanatomy: thus providing a multi-level perspective in neurobiology.

Assessable learning outcomes:
Knowledge and understanding: -
A comprehensive overview of neurobiology.

Intellectual skills:
- Critically appraise and summarize information related to neurobiology, using a multi-level perspective from genetics, physiology, and neuroanatomy
- Be familiar with relevant experimental techniques, including the ability to collect and integrate information from the literature,
-To apply knowledge in neurobiology to address research problems, as well as acquire, interpret and/or critically analyse research.

Transferable (key) skills:
- Systematically search for literature and evaluate neurobiological research and to draw justified conclusions from the evidence, communicate knowledge or arguments (both orally and in writing) to a variety of audiences and to evaluate the views of others.

Additional outcomes:

It is anticipated that this module will provide the requisite training for students wishing to pursue a research career in psychology and related disciplines.

Outline content:

Neuroanatomy, Neurotransmitter Systems; Cellular, Molecular and Behavioural Techniques, Pharmacology; and Genetics

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Teaching and learning methods include a mixture of seminars, group discussions, aided by audiovisual materials available online or recorded by staff members as part of their research.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

The module will be assessed via an essay.

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:
pass mark = 50%

Reassessment arrangements:

If a student fails the assignment, an alternative, equivalent assignment can be submitted.  The assignment and date of submission will be by arrangement with the Module Convenor and/or Programme Director. Students should note however that, given the University regulations on failing credits, it may not be in their interests to resubmit the coursework.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books:
2) Specialist equipment or materials:
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding:
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 4 April 2020