This introductory module looks at the relationship of the brain to behaviour, beginning with the basic elements that make up the central nervous system, and key techniques used in cognitive neuroscience to understand the human brain/behaviour relationship e.g., neuroimaging methods (like fMRI), neuromodulatory methods (TMS) and studying patients with acquired brain damage (e.g., neuropsychology with stroke patients). Using this foundation, we examine the brain mechanisms that are involved in perception (visual and auditory), language and memory.

We will also explore individual differences in memory, language and perception, and the nature of neural plasticity for these domains. We will also have a special anatomy lecture, where you will get hands-on experience with dissected human brains to look at the brain areas involved in these key domains. 

Aims

Provide essential information on the biological building blocks for perception, memory and language
 Show how the nervous system interacts with sensory systems
 Develop awareness of the neural basis of cognitive systems underlying memory and language.
Learning outcomes

Demonstrate understanding of the basic structure and function of the human nervous system.
 Describe the gross anatomy of the brain and central nervous system
 Describe the key characteristics of synaptic plasticity and the cellular foundations of learning.
 Explain the overall structure and constituent parts of the auditory system and demonstrate understanding of how the nervous system underlies auditory perception and behaviour.
 Explain the overall structure and constituent parts of the visual system and demonstrate understanding of how the nervous system underlies visual perception and behaviour.
 Demonstrate basic knowledge of the neural systems underlying memory and language.
 Demonstrate basic knowledge of the effects of neural damage on human language and communication
Skills

Manage their own learning of complex topics, by using library and web resources.
 Identify anatomical structures on  3D models and real tissue specimens.
 Use web-based teaching tools such as Moodle to help direct and organise their learning.