| Module Code: PSY3085 |
Module Title: SEX, DRUGS AND NEUROSCIENCE |
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Module Provider: Psychology
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Short Name: PSY3085
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Level: HE3
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Module Co-ordinator: MCNAMARA A Dr (Psychology)
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Number of credits: 15
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Number of ECTS credits: 7.5
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| Module Availability |
| Semester 1. |
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| Assessment Pattern |
| TBC |
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| Module Overview |
| This module focuses on the role of the major neurotransmitters and sex hormones upon behaviour. The course aims to teach students how to investigate the ‘neurobiological basis of a human behaviour’ with training in how to read and understand research in a particular field at various levels of neuroscience and cognitive psychology. Students are taught to rapidly integrate large quantities of information from multiple sources and to generate ideas for taking the ‘next step’ in science. |
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| Prerequisites/Co-requisites |
| N/A |
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| Module Aims |
| This course teaches students how to research a particular aspect of human behaviour at multiple levels of neuroscience. Students will be presented with original research conducted at genetic, molecular, cellular, systems, behavioural levels. Note the key aim of this course is to develop “research skills” rather than just learn facts. Particularly the fast collation, organization, summarizing and communication of novel areas of scientific research. The context for this learning is the major neurotransmitter systems, sex hormones, executive function, reward learning, evolution of language, learning and memory. |
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| Learning Outcomes |
A large selection of research material will provided, students will be expected to work individually and as a group member in conducting research. By the end of the module students will be expected to demonstrate:-
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The ability to collate a number of research papers upon a subject from across multiple levels of study (Genetic – Behavioural).
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The ability to thoughtfully organize such collections of data in way that allows for you to integrate new information as it comes to you.
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The ability to rapidly select key information from a complex study not within your professional field.
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The ability to communicate a summary of current state-of-scientific knowledge about a particular field to others.
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The ability to identify the next logical step for research in a particular field.
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A general understanding of the neurotransmitters Serotonin, Acetylcholine, Dopamine, Norepinephrine, GABA and glutamate.
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A general understanding of how sex hormones may interact with neurotransmitters to affect behaviour.
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A general understanding of the reward system and addiction.
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A general understanding of the limbic system and memory.
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A general understanding of the executive system and evolution of language.
- To offer reasonable, educated suggestions as to how drugs (recreational or clinical), or hormones may be inducing particular behaviours.
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| Module Content |
Module content is subject to change although the following are core:
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The influence of the neurotransmitters, Serotonin, Dopamine, Acetylcholine, Norepinephrine, GABA and glutamate on behaviour.
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The influence of the sex hormones upon behaviour.
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The reward system and addictio
Other content areas which may be touched upon include:
Schizophrenia, depression, ADHD, executive control, evolution of language, limbic system and memory, the neurobiology of love, sex, trust, aggression, social dominance, stress. |
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| Methods of Teaching/Learning |
Traditional Lectures 15hrs
Two presentations, one short (group non-assessed), second short individual (assessed) 5hrs
Group work (1 period) 2hrs |
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| Selected Texts/Journals |
| Texts are self selected by students and pooled together after guidance from lecturer in first class. Students are encouraged and taught group study techniques. A large library of additional texts is also provided by the lecturer after this first class |
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| Last Updated |
| 6th May 2011. |
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