PSYC 271/3.0: Brain Behaviour I

This course is available to both Queen’s and non-Queen’s students. Non-Queen’s students (including interest students, visiting students, and new online degree students) must first apply for admission. The following course description is presented for informational purposes only and is subject to change.

Instructor

Monica Valsangkar-Smyth Learn more about the instructor...
E-mail: mv3@queensu.ca

Course Description

This online psychology course is an introduction to behavioural neuroscience. The course primarily focuses on the basics of neuronal operation, functional neuroanatomy, neuropharmacology, and behavioral neuroscience methods. This will be followed by an examination of input (sensory) and output (motor) systems of the brain. Finally, topics relevant to lateralization of function will be covered.

Introduction

PSYC 271 is a course designed to introduce you to the field of Behavioural Neuroscience. This course initially focuses on the basics of how neurons function, neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, behavioural neuroscience methods, genetics and evolution. This will be followed by an examination of the sensory and motor systems and finally, topics relevant to lateralization of function will be covered.

This course has a 2-part learning objective.

• First, it is imperative to gain a working knowledge of basic brain terminology and functioning. This information can then be used to gain an understanding of how the brain is able to process complex information and respond accordingly. 
• Second, you will learn about theories developed to explain how the brain works and also how scientists study the brain in order to assess these theories.  

Biopsychology is very multidisciplinary and our body of knowledge comes from various fields of study, including physiological psychology, neuropsychology, neurology and neuroimmunology. By combining research ideas from all of these disciplines, a more complete picture of the brain is beginning to emerge. I say beginning because the brain is truly a challenge for scientists to understand, as its ability to evolve and adapt is so great. I believe understanding the brain and its role in behaviour is the ultimate challenge for science!

See the course topics...

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More information:

• Computer Requirements and Internet Access
• Moodle, Our Online Learning Environment 
• Academic Integrity
• Evaluation
• Suggested Time Commitment
• Required Material