NSCI 401(S) Topics in Neuroscience
Neuroscientists explore issues inherent in the study of brain and behavior. The
overall objective of this seminar is to create a culminating senior experience in
which previous course work in specific areas in the Neuroscience Program can
be brought to bear in a synthetic, interdisciplinary approach to understanding
complex problems. The specific goals for students in this seminar are (1) to evaluate original research and critically examine the experimental evidence for
theoretical issues, and (2) to gain an understanding of this discipline through
group work, and oral presentations. Topics and instructional formats will vary
somewhat from year to year, but in all cases the course will emphasize an integrative approach in which students will be asked to consider topics from a range
of perspectives including molecular, cellular, systems, behavioral and clinical
neuroscience. Previous topics have included memory, autism, depression, alcoholism, language development, and stress.
Format: student-led discussions and presentations, three hours a week. Evaluation will be based on presentations, participation in class discussion, and a term
paper.
Prerequisites: open only to seniors in the Neuroscience program. Enrollment
limit: 24 (expected: 22).
This course is required of all senior students in the Neuroscience program.