URL study guide

https://studiegids.vu.nl/en/courses/2024-2025/AB_1056

Course Objective

Introduction to the field of cognitive neuroscience: understanding the biological mechanisms underlying cognitive processes such as learning and memory, discussing recent developments in the field with leading scientists, and acquiring knowledge on how the brain, and its different cell types, systems, and function.

Course Content

In the first course of this Minor, you will learn the basics of cognitive neuroscience through a series of introductory lectures on brain function and (dysfunctional) cognitive behavior. More specifically, we will teach you the structure and function of the major building blocks of the brain, ranging from single cells to neuronal networks, and from emotion to motor control. We combine workshops and keynote lectures, delivered by renowned neuroscientists, to discuss recent advances in the field of learning and memory, brain plasticity, and brain disease (e.g., developmental disorders, Angelman syndrome, PTSD). Finally, you will learn about frontier brain imaging methods (e.g. MRI) and experience various technical approaches to measure the brain (e.g., histology) in hands-on practicals.

Teaching Methods

Teaching and learning activities will be scheduled on campus (by estimation) 2 times/week. Additional activities include individual assignments, group assignments, computer programming and self study.

Method of Assessment

Written exam & assignments

Literature

Recent literature, to be announced at the start of the course. Foundations of Behavioral Neuroscience Carlson, Neil R. (9th edition) Exam material: CH2, CH3, CH5, CH6 (pg. 136
- 146), CH7 & CH12

Target Audience

Open to students from all educational backgrounds (e.g., exact, social, life and economic sciences) with an interest in the brain and mind. Due to curriculum overlap, students from Biomedical Sciences and Health and Life Sciences from the VU cannot follow this course.

Additional Information

Coordinators: Christiaan de Kock and Martijn van den Heuvel. No special requirements to be met. Part of minor Brain and Mind. This minor course requires a minimum of 25 participants to take place.

Entry Requirements

This course is part of the minor Brain and Mind. University students need at least 90 ECTS to be eligible for (courses in) this minor. HBO students can follow (courses in) this minor if they have at least 120 ETCS.
Academic year1/09/2431/08/25
Course level6.00 EC

Language of Tuition

  • English

Study type

  • Master
  • Bachelor