Neuroscience

Neuroscience is a year-long course that covers college-level neuroscience concepts and includes virtual and table-top investigations. Fall semester will start with examination of cellular neuroanatomy and a thorough understanding of the electrical properties of ion channels, neurons, and synapses. As we start to understand networks of neurons, we will investigate sensory and motor systems, culminating in the comparative anatomy of nervous systems and brain structure and function. Spring semester will look at higher functions, including learning and memory, language, emotions, and mood. We will follow human brain development from birth through the second round of changes in adolescence. We will also address brain gender and loss of brain function through addiction and disease. Students will research, present, and lead discussion on the neurological disorder or phenomenon of their choice, relating the condition to fundamental structures that we studied at the start of the class.