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Neural Basis of Motivation and Learning (NEUR0014)

Key information

Faculty
Faculty of Life Sciences
Teaching department
Division of Biosciences
Credit value
15
Restrictions
A pass in ANAT0003 or MBBS Neuroscience, or permission of module organizer are required. Numbers are limited to 50 and places will be allocated based on average marks in year 2.
Timetable

Alternative credit options

There are no alternative credit options available for this module.

Description

The module is centred around the group of neural structures traditionally described as the limbic system which are involved in learning, memory, emotion, motivation and navigation. They include the amygdala, striatum, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex. The module consists of a set of lectures on the anatomy, physiology and role in behaviour of these structures, with the aim of addressing questions such as:

1) Why do organisms choose to do different things at different times?

2) How do they react to affective stimuli encountered on the way?

3) How do we know where we are, and how do we learn to navigate through space?

In addition to the lectures, students will give presentations on research articles related to specific topics raised in the lectures.

The module is available to undergraduate students on MSci/BSc/iBSc degrees in Neuroscience and the neuroscience related streams of Biomedical Sciences and Natural Sciences. Students on other degree programmes, including affiliate students, will require a strong background in neuroscience (e.g. ANAT0003 Human Neuroanatomy) and the permission of the module organiser.

Indicative lecture topics:

  • Parietal Cortex and Egocentric Space
  • Hippocampus and memory
  • Ventral hippocampus
  • Adult neurogenesis
  • The hypothalamus as the behaviour control centre
  • Hippocampus and space
  • Striatum and learning
  • Dopamine and learning
  • Amygdala
  • Neuroeconomics
  • The orbitofrontal and anterior cingulate cortices
  • Frontal cortex
  • Consciousness

Module deliveries for 2024/25 academic year

Intended teaching term: Term 1 ÌýÌýÌý Undergraduate (FHEQ Level 7)

Teaching and assessment

Mode of study
In person
Methods of assessment
100% Exam
Mark scheme
Numeric Marks

Other information

Number of students on module in previous year
0
Module leader
Dr Francesca Cacucci
Who to contact for more information
f.cacucci@ucl.ac.uk

Intended teaching term: Term 1 ÌýÌýÌý Postgraduate (FHEQ Level 7)

Teaching and assessment

Mode of study
In person
Methods of assessment
100% Exam
Mark scheme
Numeric Marks

Other information

Number of students on module in previous year
0
Module leader
Dr Francesca Cacucci
Who to contact for more information
f.cacucci@ucl.ac.uk

Intended teaching term: Term 1 ÌýÌýÌý Undergraduate (FHEQ Level 6)

Teaching and assessment

Mode of study
In Person
Methods of assessment
100% Exam
Mark scheme
Numeric Marks

The methods of assessment for affiliate students may be different to those indicated above. Please contact the department for more information.

Other information

Number of students on module in previous year
66
Module leader
Dr Francesca Cacucci
Who to contact for more information
f.cacucci@ucl.ac.uk

Last updated

This module description was last updated on 19th August 2024.

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