UNIVERSITY OF KENT
MODULE SPECIFICATION TEMPLATE
SECTION 1: MODULE SPECIFICATIONS
1.
Title of the module
BI643-- Neuroscience
2.
School or partner institution which will be responsible for management of the module
School of Biosciences
3.
Start date of the module
Academic Year 2013-14
4.
The number of students expected to take the module
25-50 estimated
5.
Modules to be withdrawn on the introduction of this proposed module and consultation with other
relevant Schools and Faculties regarding the withdrawal
None
6.
The level of the module (e.g. Certificate [C], Intermediate [I], Honours [H] or Postgraduate [M])
H
7.
The number of credits and the ECTS value which the module represents
15
8.
Which term(s) the module is to be taught in (or other teaching pattern)
Autumn
9.
Prerequisite and co-requisite modules
Stage 1 and Stage 2 Human Physiology and Disease (prerequisite)
10. The programmes of study to which the module contributes
BSc Biomedical Science and related programmes (optional)
BSc Biology and related programmes (optional)
BSc Biochemistry and related programmes (optional)
11. The intended subject specific learning outcomes
11.1 An appreciation of the cellular and molecular complexity of the nervous system gained
through knowledge of:
 how the nervous system develops
 how nerve cells communicate at synapses
11.2 An understanding of the relationship between the brain and behaviour
11.3 An understanding of acquired and inherited neurological diseases
Approved March 2014
UNIVERSITY OF KENT
11.4 An appreciation of the significant achievements of research in neuroscience and the
many unanswered questions
The above address the following programme outcomes:
BSc Biomedical Science: A1, A4, A5, A7, B1, B2
BSc Biology: A2, A3, A4, A5, A8, B1, C2
BSc Biochemistry: A3, A5, A7, A8, B1, B2
12. The intended generic learning outcomes
Development of the following skills:
12.1 Comprehending complex scientific topics
12.2 Sourcing, reading and evaluating scientific literature
12.3 Written and oral communication skills
The above address the following programme outcomes:
BSc Biomedical Science: A16, B1, B2, B3, B6, C4, D1, D4, D6
BSc Biology: B2, B3, D4, D5, D11, D12, D14
BSc Biochemistry: A11, B1, B5, B6, C4, D1, D4, D6
13. A synopsis of the curriculum
The module is divided into three roughly equal sized units, each dealing with a specific
aspect of neurobiology. Throughout, both the normal system and diseases and disorders
that arise as a consequence of abnormalities will be covered.
Unit 1: Development of the Nervous System
Looks at how the complex and intricately wired nervous system develops from a simple
sheet of neuroepithelial cells by addressing the cellular and molecular basis of:
Neurulation (formation of the brain and spinal cord)
Nerve cell proliferation (Neurogenesis)
Differentiation and survival of nerve cells
Axon growth and guidance
Synapse formation (Synaptogenesis)
Unit 2: Signalling at the Synapse
Considers the molecules and mechanisms involved in transmission of signals between
nerve cells:
Electrical synapses and gap junctions
Chemical synapses:
Neurotransmitters and neuromodulators
Molecular mechanisms of transmitter release
Neurotransmitter receptors and transporters
Unit 3: The Brain and Behaviour
Explores how the nervous system controls a variety of behaviours including:
Learning and memory
Language and communication
Sleep and dreaming
Approved March 2014
UNIVERSITY OF KENT
14. Indicative Reading List
Principles of Neural Science, Kandel, Schwartz, Jessel, Siegelbaum, Hudspeth, 5th ed
(2012)
Fundamental Neuroscience, Squire, Berg, Bloom, du Lac, Ghosh, Spitzer, 4th ed (2012)
Research articles available from Templeman Library journal collections
15. Learning and Teaching Methods, including the nature and number of contact hours and the total
study hours which will be expected of students, and how these relate to achievement of the intended
module learning outcomes
Lectures: 19 hours (address all learning outcomes)
Workshops, critical evaluation of the literature: 3 hours (address all learning outcomes,
with particular emphasis on 12.1-12.3)
Self study: 128 hours (addresses all learning outcomes)
16. Assessment methods and how these relate to testing achievement of the intended module learning
outcomes
Mini literature review of approximately 2000-3000 words (40%) (addresses all learning
outcomes, particularly 11.4; 12.1-12.3)
2 hr Exam (summer) (60%) (addresses all learning outcomes, particularly 11.1-11.4;
12.3)
17. Implications for learning resources, including staff, library, IT and space
Staff: the module can be delivered by existing staff who have the required expertise
in neuroscience
Library: copies of recommended texts
Space: suitable lecture theatre or seminar room
18. The School of Biosciences recognises and has embedded the expectations of current disability
equality legislation, and supports students with a declared disability or special educational need in its
teaching. Within this module we will make reasonable adjustments wherever necessary, including
additional or substitute materials, teaching modes or assessment methods for students who have
declared and discussed their learning support needs. Arrangements for students with declared
disabilities will be made on an individual basis, in consultation with the University’s
disability/dyslexia support service, and specialist support will be provided where needed.
19. Campus(es) where module will be delivered:
Canterbury
Approved March 2014
UNIVERSITY OF KENT
SECTION 2: MODULE IS PART OF A PROGRAMME OF STUDY IN A UNIVERSITY SCHOOL
Statement by the School Director of Learning and Teaching/School Director of Graduate Studies
(as appropriate): "I confirm I have been consulted on the above module proposal and have given advice
on the correct procedures and required content of module proposals"
................................................................
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Director of Learning and Teaching/Director of
Graduate Studies (delete as applicable)
Date
…………………………………………………
Print Name
Statement by the Head of School: "I confirm that the School has approved the introduction of the
module and, where the module is proposed by School staff, will be responsible for its resourcing"
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Head of School
Date
…………………………………………………….
Print Name
SECTION 3: MODULE IS PART OF A PROGRAMME IN A PARTNER COLLEGE OR VALIDATED
INSTITUTION
(Where the module is proposed by a Partner College/Validated Institution)
Statement by the Nominated Officer of the College/Validated Institution (delete as applicable): "I
confirm that the College/Validated Institution (delete as applicable) has approved the introduction of the
module and will be responsible for its resourcing"
.................................................................
..............................................
Nominated Responsible Officer of Partner
College/Validated Institution
Date
………………………………………………….
Print Name
…………………………………………………..
Post
………………………………………….
Partner College/Validated Institution
Module Specification Template
Last updated February 2013
Approved March 2014