Animals must learn to survive, and the brain is the learning machine that does the job. But how does it do it? In this paper, we investigate the neural mechanisms of learning and memory, with particular emphasis on the physiological, molecular and anatomical mechanisms of synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus and related brain regions. We take a critical look at the evidence regarding the mechanisms underlying Long-term potentiation, and long-term depression, and whether they have the behavioural relevance that is commonly assumed.
About this paper
| Paper title | Synaptic Plasticity Mechanisms |
|---|---|
| Subject | Psychology |
| EFTS | 0.0833 |
| Points | 10 points |
| Teaching period | Semester 1 (On campus) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees ( NZD ) | $813.42 |
| International Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website. |
- Restriction
- PSYC 474
- Eligibility
Entry into Psychology 400-level normally requires a major in Psychology, a B+ average or higher in Psychology 300-level papers, and a pass in PSYC 311 Quantitative Methods. We highly recommend that students have completed PSYC 310 and PSYC 317 or equivalent. Students from other universities must show evidence of an equivalent level of competence.
For Neuroscience students, the prerequisites are met by completion of the requirements for a BSc in Neuroscience with an average grade of at least B+ in 300-level Neuroscience papers.
- Contact
- Teaching staff
- Paper Structure
The paper covers three key themes:
- Review of basic neurophysiology and molecular neurobiology
- Mechanisms of long-term potentiation and long-term depression
- Behavioural relevance of synaptic plasticity
- Textbooks
Textbooks are not required for this paper. Readings will be primary articles and reviews.
- Graduate Attributes Emphasised
- Communication, Critical thinking, Information literacy, Research, Self-motivation.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes. - Learning Outcomes
Students who successfully complete this paper will be able to understand, critically assess and discuss both orally and in written form the evidence regarding plasticity mechanisms and their behavioural relevance.
Animals must learn to survive, and the brain is the learning machine that does the job. But how does it do it? In this paper, we investigate the neural mechanisms of learning and memory, with particular emphasis on the physiological, molecular and anatomical mechanisms of synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus and related brain regions. We take a critical look at the evidence regarding the mechanisms underlying long-term potentiation and long-term depression, and whether they have the behavioural relevance that is commonly assumed.
About this paper
| Paper title | Synaptic Plasticity Mechanisms |
|---|---|
| Subject | Psychology |
| EFTS | 0.0833 |
| Points | 10 points |
| Teaching period | Semester 1 (On campus) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for 2027 have not yet been set |
| International Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website. |
- Restriction
- PSYC 474
- Eligibility
Entry into Psychology 400-level normally requires a major in Psychology, a B+ average or higher in Psychology 300-level papers, and a pass in PSYC 311 Quantitative Methods. We highly recommend that students have completed PSYC 310 and PSYC 317 or equivalent.
Students from other universities must show evidence of an equivalent level of competence.
For Neuroscience students, the prerequisites are met by completion of the requirements for a BSc in Neuroscience with an average grade of at least B+ in 300-level Neuroscience papers.
- Contact
- Teaching staff
- Paper Structure
The paper covers three key themes:
- Review of basic neurophysiology and molecular neurobiology
- Mechanisms of long-term potentiation and long-term depression
- Behavioural relevance of synaptic plasticity
- Textbooks
Textbooks are not required for this paper. Readings will be primary articles and reviews.
- Graduate Attributes Emphasised
- Communication, Critical thinking, Information literacy, Research, Self-motivation.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes. - Learning Outcomes
Students who successfully complete this paper will be able to understand, critically assess and discuss both orally and in written form the evidence regarding plasticity mechanisms and their behavioural relevance.