Overview
Evolution and development of brains; sensory systems and how animals perceive the world; control of agile movement; behavioural plasticity; mechanisms of memory.
We explore how nervous systems gather, process, and integrate information to produce natural behaviours in animals, including humans.
About this paper
| Paper title | Neurobiology |
|---|---|
| Subject | Zoology |
| EFTS | 0.15 |
| Points | 18 points |
| Teaching period | Semester 2 (On campus) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees ( NZD ) | $1,243.65 |
| International Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website. |
- Prerequisite
- 54 200-level points from Science Schedule C
- Schedule C
- Science
- Contact
- zoology@otago.ac.nz
- Teaching staff
Dr Bart Geurten
Joseph Cahill-Lane
- Paper Structure
Topics
- Signal generation and propagation in nervous systems
- comparison of biological versus artificial neural networks
- mechanisms of perception, movement and learning
- emergent intelligence
Teaching method
- Lectures
- Readings
- Quizzes
- Weekly research-based labs (attending labs is voluntary, alternative online materials will be available for those who cannot attend in person). Students will engage in small group research activities, providing hands-on experience with the scientific method. Through designing, planning, and executing multiple short projects, students will gain practical insights into experimental design and scientific research.
- Teaching Arrangements
Content is available online before classes. Lectures will be given in person, live streamed via Zoom and recorded. Students are expected to have listened and understood the lectures before they do the labs.
- Textbooks
- Textbooks are not required for this paper.
- Course outline
- Graduate Attributes Emphasised
- Global perspective, Interdisciplinary perspective, Lifelong learning, Scholarship, Communication, Critical thinking, Ethics, Information literacy, Research, Self-motivation, Teamwork.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes. - Learning Outcomes
- Develop a general knowledge and understanding of how neurons and neural networks function and how they generate perception and behaviour.
- Gain insight into classic and modern approaches to study nervous system function, animal behaviour and learning.
- Be able to work individually to source information and to communicate knowledge and ideas effectively in writing.
- Demonstrated an ability to work as a member of a team to design and run experiments.
- Develop an inquiring mind and self-responsibility for learning. You will apply observational and descriptive skills and focus on the integration and interpretation of information. You will be trained to develop your critical thinking, self-evaluation skills and confidence.
- Assessment details
Internal assessment (50%)
- Please see course outline
Final exam (50%)
- 3 hours
- In person
- Multiple choice questions related to the lectures