Module Descriptors
NEUROLOGY
BIOL60350
Key Facts
Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Sciences
Level 6
15 credits
Contact
Leader: Paul Orsmond
Email: P.Orsmond@staffs.ac.uk
Hours of Study
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: 24
Independent Study Hours: 126
Total Learning Hours: 150
Assessment
- EXAMINATION - OPEN BOOK EXAMINATION IN EXAMINATION CONDITIONS weighted at 50%
- VIVA weighted at 50%
Module Details
Module Indicative Content
This module has been designed to develop advanced knowledge of the nature of the brain's function. The module will concentrate on (1) the nature and purpose of the blood-brain barrier considering in detail transport across the barrier; (2) the role of non-neuronal brain cells, with particular reference to astrocytes in a variety of roles such as synaptic transmission; (3) inflammation and the action of 'free radicals' and cytokines; and (4) changes in the brain environment during diseased states with specific reference to Alzheimer's disease. In order to become familiar with the material presented in the lectures, students will need to engage in the literature on the maintenance and control of the brain environment.
Module Additional Assessment Details
Assessment 1) 50% An unseen 90 minute open book essay (2 & 3)
Assessment 2) 50% A 15 minute 'viva' on two selected primary literature sources supplied by the student (1, 2 & 3)
Time will be made available for formative essays and viva activities. An observer will be present during the viva to ensure uniformity in the structure and questioning in all vivas.
Criteria relating to these assessments are available in the module handbook, and for the intranet-based assignment on the server dedicated to this assessment type.
Assessment 2) 50% A 15 minute 'viva' on two selected primary literature sources supplied by the student (1, 2 & 3)
Time will be made available for formative essays and viva activities. An observer will be present during the viva to ensure uniformity in the structure and questioning in all vivas.
Criteria relating to these assessments are available in the module handbook, and for the intranet-based assignment on the server dedicated to this assessment type.
Module Special Admissions Requirements
Study of any level 2 biology module or equivalent
Module Texts
Journals of use in the library:
Trends in Neuroscience; Trends in Pharmacology; New Scientist; Science; Nature; Annual Reviews of the Neurosciences
Trends in Neuroscience; Trends in Pharmacology; New Scientist; Science; Nature; Annual Reviews of the Neurosciences
Module Resources
- Primary and secondary literature in the LRC
- Access to library, computers and books
Additional literature:
Nicholls. Proteins, Transmitters and Synapses
Bowman and Rand: Textbook of Pharmacology
- Access to library, computers and books
Additional literature:
Nicholls. Proteins, Transmitters and Synapses
Bowman and Rand: Textbook of Pharmacology
Module Learning Strategies
The module makes use of lectures (12 x 2hrs) to deliver its material. Activities within these lectures will be listed in the module handbook. Each activity will contain notes relating to the specific learning tasks. Tutor-led discussions will supplement written material. Student-led activities, such as engagement in discussions with exemplar essays will act as preparation for the final assessment. Primary and secondary literature, available in the LRC, will provide a focus for discussion. There will be opportunities for students to discuss the role of experimentation as a tool to explore aspects of brain function and to consider specific concepts and theories.