Course overview
- Study period
- Semester 2, 2024 (22/07/2024 - 18/11/2024)
- Study level
- Undergraduate
- Location
- St Lucia
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 2
- Administrative campus
- St Lucia
- Coordinating unit
- Psychology School
All psychological phenomena are based in the brain and nervous system. This course overviews the rapidly expanding discipline of neuroscience as relevant to psychologists. Topics include neural changes during learning, cortical control of executive functions and language, control of movement and skilled actions as well as the biological bases of common mental disorders.
The main aim of the course is to develop a critical understanding of neuroscience so that knowledge relevant to psychology in this expanding field can be evaluated by the student. Our approach is a bottom-up hierarchical one: sensory and perceptual processes are essential knowledge for the understanding of neuroscience principles. A secondary aim is to inculcate a feeling of interest in some students who may want to go on to study more advanced topics such as human neuropsychology, sensory neuroscience, or the neuroscience of social behaviour, and prepare them with the methodological background to approach these issues.ﾠTo this end, we will be spending some tutorial time learning a few basic principles of programming in Matlab, as preparation for 3rd-year, honours and potentially PhD-level pursuits.ﾠKnowledge of methodology is fundamental to conceptualising behavioural and neuroscience principles, therefore methodology will be interwoven into all topics covered in the tutorials.ﾠ
Course requirements
Prerequisites
You'll need to complete the following courses before enrolling in this one:
10 units of any courses + (PSYC1020 or NEUR1020) + (PSYC1030 or PSYC1040)
Incompatible
You can't enrol in this course if you've already completed the following:
PSYC2020
Course contact
Course staff
Lecturer
Dr Lena Oestreich
Dr Raphael Ricci
Timetable
The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.
Aims and outcomes
The main aim of the course is to develop a critical understanding of neuroscience so that knowledge relevant to psychology in this expanding field can be evaluated by the student. Our approach is a bottom-up hierarchical one: sensory and perceptual processes are essential knowledge for the understanding of neuroscience principles. A secondary aim is to inculcate a feeling of interest in some students who may want to go on to study more advanced topics such as human neuropsychology, sensory neuroscience, or the neuroscience of social behaviour, and prepare them with the methodological background to approach these issues.ﾠTo this end, we will be spending some tutorial time learning a few basic principles of programming in Matlab, as preparation for 3rd-year, honours and potentially PhD-level pursuits.ﾠKnowledge of methodology is fundamental to conceptualising behavioural and neuroscience principles, therefore methodology will be interwoven into all topics covered in the tutorials.ﾠ
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
locate basic brain structures and use anatomical terms
LO2.
identify parts of neurons
LO3.
identify types of brain cells and their functions
LO4.
specify how signals are transmitted through neurons
LO5.
specify the consequences of damage to certain brain regions
LO6.
define some key neurological syndromes (for example, agnosia, apraxia)
LO7.
specify the distinctions between several types of key neurological syndromes
LO8.
define and explain basic facts about how neurons, neurotransmitters and complex brain systems operate to produce normal and abnormal cognition, emotions, motivation and behaviour
LO9.
demonstrate understanding of facts in tests and written reports
LO10.
write an empirical report about a behavioural experiment, clearly defining theory, methods, data and results and inferences to be drawn from data and results
LO11.
demonstrate, through active laboratory activities, a knowledge of some key perceptual functions.
LO12.
demonstrate, through active laboratory activities, an understanding of selected cognitive functions.
LO13.
understand and explain how both low-level abilities, such as perception and motor control, and higher-level abilities, such as inhibitory control and working memory, are organised in the brain
LO14.
Identify and explain the range of research methods used in neuroscience
LO15.
Understand some preliminary principles of computer programming (Matlab)
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Practical/ Demonstration | Signal detection assignment | 10% |
23/08/2024 4:00 pm |
| Quiz | Quiz | 60% |
Quiz 1 28/08/2024 - 30/08/2024 Quiz 2 18/09/2024 - 20/09/2024 Quiz 3 23/10/2024 - 25/10/2024
Quiz will be completed in Tutorials |
| Paper/ Report/ Annotation | Lab report (part 1) | 15% |
13/09/2024 4:00 pm |
| Paper/ Report/ Annotation | Lab report (part 2) | 15% |
18/10/2024 4:00 pm |
Assessment details
Signal detection assignment
- Mode
- Activity/ Performance, Written
- Category
- Practical/ Demonstration
- Weight
- 10%
- Due date
23/08/2024 4:00 pm
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L11, L12, L13, L15
Task description
You will work on the Signal Detection assignment during the tutorials prior to the submission date.
Submission guidelines
Via turnitin
NOTE: You will no longer receive an automatic submission receipt from Turnitin confirming your assignment has been received. You should download a copy of the digital receipt from the Assignment Dashboard and keep this as a record.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 14 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
Quiz
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Quiz
- Weight
- 60%
- Due date
Quiz 1 28/08/2024 - 30/08/2024
Quiz 2 18/09/2024 - 20/09/2024
Quiz 3 23/10/2024 - 25/10/2024
Quiz will be completed in Tutorials
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09, L10, L11, L12, L13, L14, L15
Task description
In class Quizzes
3 quizzes to be completed in tutorial classes.
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to defer this exam.
Lab report (part 1)
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Paper/ Report/ Annotation
- Weight
- 15%
- Due date
13/09/2024 4:00 pm
- Learning outcomes
- L09, L10, L11, L12, L13, L14
Task description
Laboratory report (introduction).
Submission guidelines
Via turnitin.
NOTE: You will no longer receive an automatic submission receipt from Turnitin confirming your assignment has been received. You should download a copy of the digital receipt from the Assignment Dashboard and keep this as a record.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 14 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
Lab report (part 2)
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Paper/ Report/ Annotation
- Weight
- 15%
- Due date
18/10/2024 4:00 pm
- Learning outcomes
- L09, L10, L11, L12, L13, L14
Task description
Laboratory report (discussion).
Submission guidelines
Via turnitin. NOTE: You will no longer receive an automatic submission receipt from Turnitin confirming your assignment has been received. You should download a copy of the digital receipt from the Assignment Dashboard and keep this as a record.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 14 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
Course grading
Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.
| Grade | Cut off Percent | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (Low Fail) | 0 - 29.99 |
Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Fails to demonstrate most or all of the basic requirements of the course: |
| 2 (Fail) | 30 - 46.99 |
Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Demonstrates clear deficiencies in understanding and applying fundamental concepts; communicates information or ideas in ways that are frequently incomplete or confusing and give little attention to the conventions of the discipline: |
| 3 (Marginal Fail) | 47 - 49.99 |
Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes Course grade description: Demonstrates superficial or partial or faulty understanding of the fundamental concepts of the field of study and limited ability to apply these concepts; presents undeveloped or inappropriate or unsupported arguments; communicates information or ideas with lack of clarity and inconsistent adherence to the conventions of the discipline: |
| 4 (Pass) | 50 - 64.99 |
Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Demonstrates adequate understanding and application of the fundamental concepts of the field of study; develops routine arguments or decisions and provides acceptable justification; communicates information and ideas adequately in terms of the conventions of the discipline: |
| 5 (Credit) | 65 - 74.99 |
Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Demonstrates substantial understanding of fundamental concepts of the field of study and ability to apply these concepts in a variety of contexts; develops or adapts convincing arguments and provides coherent justification; communicates information and ideas clearly and fluently in terms of the conventions of the discipline: |
| 6 (Distinction) | 75 - 84.99 |
Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: As for 5, with frequent evidence of originality in defining and analysing issues or problems and in creating solutions; uses a level, style and means of communication appropriate to the discipline and the audience: |
| 7 (High Distinction) | 85 - 100 |
Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: As for 6, with consistent evidence of substantial originality and insight in identifying, generating and communicating competing arguments, perspectives or problem solving approaches; critically evaluates problems, their solutions and implications: |
Supplementary assessment
Supplementary assessment is available for this course.
Additional assessment information
If any potential academic integrity has been identified, the assignment mark will be withheld and the case referred to the Integrity officer.
Learning resources
You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.
Library resources
Library resources are available on the UQ Library website.
Learning activities
The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.
Filter activity type by
Please select
| Learning period | Activity type | Topic |
|---|---|---|
Week 1 (22 Jul - 28 Jul) |
Tutorial |
No tutorial |
Lecture |
Wk1: Course Introduction; Methods in Neuroscience Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L14 |
|
Week 2 (29 Jul - 04 Aug) |
Tutorial |
Introduction and Guided Brain Tour Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L09, L14 |
Lecture |
Wk2: Neuroanatomy 1 Gross Neuroanatomy Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05 |
|
Week 3 (05 Aug - 11 Aug) |
Tutorial |
Signal Detection ***Attendance extremely important data collection and background for assignment Learning outcomes: L08, L09, L10, L11, L12, L13, L14 |
Lecture |
Wk3: Neuroanatomy 2 Cellular Neuroanatomy Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L04, L14 |
|
Week 4 (12 Aug - 18 Aug) |
Lecture |
Wk4: No lecture no lecture (EKKA week) |
Week 5 (19 Aug - 25 Aug) |
Tutorial |
Stereovision and Depth Perception The Pulfrich Illusion: ***Attendance extremely important The Pulfrich Illusion Learning outcomes: L08, L09, L10, L11, L12, L13, L14 |
Lecture |
Wk5: The Visual System Learning outcomes: L04, L05, L06, L07, L08 |
|
Week 6 (26 Aug - 01 Sep) |
Tutorial |
Quiz 1 **during class time** Quiz material: Lectures from weeks 1 to 5 plus tutorials from weeks 2 and 5. In tutorial class. Duration 40 minutes, one question presented at a time, no backtracking. 40 questions, 0.5 marks each, total 20 marks Assignment 2: Lab report writing. Background and Introduction Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09, L10, L11, L12, L13, L14, L15 |
Lecture |
Wk6: Other Sensory Systems and Multisensory Learning outcomes: L04, L05, L06, L07, L08 |
|
Week 7 (02 Sep - 08 Sep) |
Tutorial |
Body representation Lab report writing - Background and Introduction recap Body representation: body representation and space: the rubber hand illusion Learning outcomes: L05, L06, L12 |
Lecture |
Wk7: Motor Control Learning outcomes: L04, L05, L06, L07, L08 |
|
Week 8 (09 Sep - 15 Sep) |
Tutorial |
Assignment 2 Lab report writing - interpretation of results and discussion Learning outcomes: L08, L09, L10, L11, L12, L13, L14 |
Lecture |
Wk8: Neural Plasticity Learning outcomes: L04, L05, L07, L08 |
|
Week 9 (16 Sep - 22 Sep) |
Tutorial |
Quiz 2 **during class time** Quiz material: Lectures from weeks 6 to 8 plus tutorials from weeks 2 and 5. In tutorial class. Duration 40 minutes, one question presented at a time. 40 questions, 0.5 marks each, total 20 marks Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09, L10, L11, L12, L13, L14, L15 |
Lecture |
Wk9: Stress Anxiety and Depression Learning outcomes: L05, L06, L07, L08 |
|
Week 10 (30 Sep - 06 Oct) |
Tutorial |
Emotion Emotion and threat perception Learning outcomes: L11, L12 |
Lecture |
Wk10: Attention Learning outcomes: L05, L06, L07, L08 |
|
Week 11 (07 Oct - 13 Oct) |
Tutorial |
Matlab 1 Applications and scripting a simple experiment. Learning outcomes: L15 |
Lecture |
Wk11: Neuropsychology of Emotions Learning outcomes: L05, L06, L07, L08 |
|
Week 12 (14 Oct - 20 Oct) |
Tutorial |
Matlab 2 Applications and scripting a simple experiment. Learning outcomes: L15 |
Lecture |
Wk12: Frontal lobes and higher cortical function Learning outcomes: L05, L06, L07, L08 |
|
Week 13 (21 Oct - 27 Oct) |
Tutorial |
Quiz 3 and wrap-up Quiz material: Lectures from weeks 9 to 12 plus tutorials from weeks 10 to 12. In tutorial class. Duration 40 minutes, one question presented at a time. 40 questions, 0.5 marks each, total 20 marks Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09, L10, L11, L12, L13, L14, L15 |
Lecture |
Wk13: Revision and Q&A session Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08 |
Policies and procedures
University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:
- Student Code of Conduct Policy
- Student Integrity and Misconduct Policy and Procedure
- Assessment Procedure
- Examinations Procedure
- Reasonable Adjustments - Students Policy and Procedure
Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.
School guidelines
Your school has additional guidelines you'll need to follow for this course: