Unit information: Neurobiology: from nerve cells to behaviour in 2015/16

Unit name	Neurobiology: from nerve cells to behaviour
Unit code	BIOL20102
Credit points	10
Level of study	I/5
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 1B (weeks 7 - 12)
Unit director	Dr. Soffe
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	None. Recommended: BIOL11000 or BIOL12000 or BIOL15000 or PHYY10100.
Co-requisites	None
School/department	School of Biological Sciences
Faculty	Faculty of Life Sciences

Description including Unit Aims

This unit explores the ways that nervous systems work to allow animals to behave. It starts by considering the basic components of nervous systems, the neurones, and how they operate and communicate with each other at synapses using chemical transmitters. The ways that neurones are used to inform animals about the world around them will then be illustrated with selected examples of sensory systems. We will then look at how nervous systems generate behaviour, starting with simple reflexes and moving on to more complex behaviour.

Practicals will explore the physiology and anatomy of nervous systems. Each student will undertake 3 x 3-hour practical classes. Two practicals involve making electrical recordings from living insects. This practical experience with living animals is an important part of the course, especially making electrical recordings of nerve cell activities. Reports on recordings are due in 1 week after the class. Feedback for both these practicals is by specific comments on reports, generic class feedback and specimen answers.

The other hands-on experience uses dissection to examine the structures of the nervous system. Dissections will be assessed at the end of the class and marks will be available next day.

Aims:

• to provide students with an understanding of the basic operation of simple neuronal circuits that allow animals to behave

• to provide students with practical experience of electrophysiology and neuroanatomy.

• to prepare students for more advanced study of neurobiology

Intended Learning Outcomes

Students will understand basic operation of simple neuronal circuits that allow animals to behave. They will have practical experience of electrophysiology and neuroanatomy.

Teaching Information

• 3 x 1 hour weekly lectures

• 3 x 3 hour lab/practicals

• Self-directed learning week (week 6). Students are expected to spend this time on directed reading.

Assessment Information

Attendance at practicals and completion of specified practical reports is mandatory.

Laboratory practical assessment (40%). End of Session exam (60%).

Reading and References

“Behavioural Neurobiology”. G.K.H. Zupanc. Oxford University Press, Oxford.