Description
The module will introduce students to the central nervous system with particular emphasis being placed on brain structures known to be involved in language processing. Following that, focus will be given to the different imaging technologies currently in use (e.g. MRI, fMRI, EEG, MEG, fNIRS and TMS). Discussion of each method will include their strengths and weaknesses; underlying principles; and any constraints on data interpretation.
There are 10 weekly ~2hr in-person sessions. At least 9 of these are interactive lectures, with some of the lectures being delivered by invited experts from around Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê. One of the in-person sessions may be allocated to preparation/delivery of an assessment.
Indicative Topics
Based on module content in 2023/24, subject to possible changes:
•ÌýÌý ÌýNeuron Anatomy and Physiology
•ÌýÌý ÌýBrain Anatomy
•ÌýÌý ÌýMagnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
•ÌýÌý Ìýfunctional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI)
•ÌýÌý ÌýResearch Methods in Cognitive Neuroscience
•ÌýÌý ÌýMagnetoencephalography (MEG) and Optically Pumped Magnetometers (OPMS)
•ÌýÌý ÌýTranscranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
•ÌýÌý ÌýElectroencephalography (EEG) and Event-Related Potentials (ERP)
•ÌýÌý Ìýfunctional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS)
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Module Aims
•ÌýÌý ÌýUnderstand the fundamental cellular activity underlying brain function
•ÌýÌý ÌýIdentify anatomical regions of the brain (with a focus on sensory-motor and language processing regions)
•ÌýÌý ÌýUnderstand the principles underlying each discussed technique’s measurement or manipulation of brain activity
•ÌýÌý ÌýCritically discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each technique
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Module deliveries for 2024/25 academic year
Last updated
This module description was last updated on 19th August 2024.
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