University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 2

Availability restrictions: Available only to students in the second year of the Honours programme

Planned timetable: Tues 12-2

The aim of this module is to explore some of the many endocrine and neural systems that modulate patterns of behaviour in a range of species, including humans. It will highlight the importance of integrating information from psychology and neuroscience disciplines in order to further our understanding of how and why animals and humans behave the way they do in different situations. The module will deal with examples of mechanisms across different levels of complexity (from genes to physiology). The module will include lectures and student presentations/journal club discussions based around current research articles in the field and a practical sessions with hands on experience of a physiological technique.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass PN2002

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2-hour lecture (x 9 weeks) plus office hour and practical sessions held across the semester.

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework (including presentation) = 100%


Re-assessment: Coursework = 100%. Re-assessment applies to failed components only

Personnel

Module coordinator: Professor K A Spencer
Module teaching staff: Prof. Karen Spencer
Module coordinator email kas21@st-andrews.ac.uk

Intended learning outcomes

• critically evaluate and present research articles
• analyse data appropriately and produce a lab report
• present the findings of complex scientific papers to a lay audience
• identify and characterise several physiological systems that underpin complex behaviours