Module Specification
The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title Functional Neuroanatomy
Code LIFE218
Coordinator Dr T Patrick
School of Life Sciences
thomas.butts@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2016-17 Level 5 FHEQ Second Semester 15

Pre-requisites before taking this module (other modules and/or general educational/academic requirements):
LIFE111; LIFE116  

Modules for which this module is a pre-requisite:
LIFE334 

Co-requisite modules:
 

Linked Modules:
 

Teaching Schedule
  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 22
narrative explanation of topics
    20
Small group teaching in HARC using anatomical models and prosections.
    42
Timetable (if known) This refers to timetabled lectures
  		    This refers to practical sessions in the Human Anatomy Resource Centre
  		     
Private Study 108
TOTAL HOURS 150

Assessment
EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Unseen Written Exam  2hrs  2  60  Yes    Exam 
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Coursework  1hr  2  30  No reassessment opportunity    Spotter There is no reassessment opportunity, The spotter test are carried out in the HARC, and require human tissue samples. These are not available over the summer for resits. 
Coursework  2 x 30 min online MC  2  10  Yes    Online quizzes Notes (applying to all assessments) Assessment 2 cannot be anonymous as the students will be walking around physical samples in HARCand writing answers on paper in order to answer questions. Assessment 3 will consist of 2 online quizzes, but formative opportunities will be provided by 3 additional online quizzes. 

Aims

  • This module aims to:

    Describe the structural organisation of the human nervous system, explaining how neuronal circuits are organised to control processes, the perception of sensations and the generation of movement and how advances in neuroimaging and microanatomical technology have advanced our understanding of the human nervous system;

  • Discuss areas of the brain that control cognitive functions such as memory, speech, reasoning and abstract thought and the influence of neuroendocrine systems on executive functioning;

  • Demonstrate how the nervous system controls the perception of sensations (such as tactile touch and pain) and the generation of movement (from stereotyped walking patterns to intricate skills);

  • Describe how the brain is nourished  and protected and explore disease conditions that result from malfunctioning in these systems.

     
    		•

    Learning Outcomes

    Identify key neuroanatomical structures and demonstrate knowledge of their principal spatial and functional relationships

    Describe the cell biology and neuronal connectivity underpinning key anatomical structures and functional capabilities

    Synthesise knowledge of cells, anatomy and function to describe the major systems for perception, movement and control 

     

    Explain the anatomy and functions associated with the meninges, cerebrospinal fluid, and major blood vessels

     

    Discuss the broader historical, clinical and scientific contexts to functional neuroanatomy, including in relation to prominent neurological diseases.

    Teaching and Learning Strategies

    Lecture - narrative explanation of topics

    This refers to timetabled lectures

    Laboratory Work - Small group teaching in HARC using anatomical models and prosections.

    This refers to practical sessions in the Human Anatomy Resource Centre

    -


    Syllabus
    1 


    The module will develop subjects covered in LIFE111 (Core Concepts in Anatomy) in relation to the nervous system and will also build upon themes explored in LIFE114 (Developmental Biology).

     

    All key learning materials (lecture slides, practical handouts) will be made available in advance through VITAL. Additionally, individual private study using brain models is available throughout the semester in HARC.

     

    All relevant study materials will be listed in the reading list, which contains the major textbooks in the field, and any additional resources used.

     

    Topics to be covered:

    Introduction – history and vasculature

    The Meninges and the CSF

    Developmental neurobiology, neurons and glia

    The spinal cord

    Touch and proprioception

    Pain

    Cranial nerve geography

    Cranial nerve biology

    The reticular formation

    Vision and hearing

    Balance, Olfaction and Gustation

    Fine motor control

    The cerebellum

    The basal ganglia

    The autonomic nervous system

    Neuroendocrinology

    The limbic System

    The neocortex

    Neuroanatomical methods

    Neuroradiology

    Recommended Texts
    Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.
    Explanation of Reading List: