University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 2

Availability restrictions: BSc Hons Neuroscience students have priority on this module

Planned timetable: Lectures: 11.00 am - 12.00 noon Tue and 10.00 am - 11.00 am Fri. Practicals to be arranged.

Until recently the nervous system was viewed as a black and white world in which neuronal networks carried out tasks using fast chemical synaptic transmission to produce an appropriate network output. However the output of neuronal networks is not fixed but instead is modifiable under different behavioural or developmental circumstances. A major source of flexibility in the output neuronal networks derives from neuromodulation; a process in which the basic operation of the networks remains the same but the strengths of synaptic connections and the integrative electrical properties of neurons in the networks are changed by the actions of a range of neuromodulators. This module explores the diverse range of neuromodulatory mechanisms and outlines their importance in information processing in the nervous system.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass PN3313

Anti-requisite(s): You cannot take this module if you take BL4231

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2 seminars.

Scheduled learning hours: 24

Guided independent study hours: 126

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 1.5-hour Written Examination = 50%, Coursework = 50%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 50%
Practical examinations : 25%
Coursework: 25%

Re-assessment: 1.5-hour Written Examination = 100%

Personnel

Module teaching staff: Dr S Pulver, Prof K Sillar, Dr G Miles, Dr W Li, Dr W Heitler