Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2020 - PSYC 280 J100

Introduction to Biological Psychology (3)

Class Number: 3966

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 11 – Aug 10, 2020: Mon, 5:30–8:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Aug 15, 2020
    Sat, 7:00–10:00 p.m.
    Location: TBA

  • Prerequisites:

    PSYC 100. Recommended: BISC 101.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Surveys the major areas in biological psychology. Topics include the basics of neuroanatomy and nerve cell function, the behavioral and physiological effects of drugs and hormones in the nervous system, evolutionary perspectives on the brain and behavior, and the biopsychology of vision, the chemical senses, hearing, movement, biological rhythms, sex, and cognitive processes. Breadth-Science.

COURSE DETAILS:

The purpose of this class is to gain an understanding of how behaviour, thoughts, and emotions emerge from brain activity. This also requires understanding and critically assessing the methods used for research into the brain mechanisms of behaviour. We will discuss also the limits of our understanding – much remains to be discovered about the relationship between biology and behaviour!

The course will begin with a survey of the anatomy and organization of the nervous system. We will examine the structure and function of the basic units of the nervous system, neurons, in order to understand electrical and chemical mechanisms of neural communication.  

The focus will then shift to learning about brain function by studying it from the viewpoints of many areas of psychology, such as development, sensory systems, motor control, motivation, sleep, language, learning & memory, and emotions. We will also investigate neurological and psychological disorders, and how pharmaceutical agents can alter brain states.

Grading

  • Assignments (In-class & homework): 15%
  • Term Project: 15%
  • Midterms (2): 40%
  • Final Exam (cumulative) : 30%

NOTES:

Please note that all teaching at SFU in summer term 2020 will be conducted through remote methods. Enrollment in this course acknowledges that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who believe they may need class or exam accommodations, including in the current context of remote learning, are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as soon as possible to ensure that they are eligible and that approved accommodations and services are implemented in a timely fashion.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Kolb, B., Whishaw, I. Q., & Teskey, G. C. (2019).  Introduction to Brain and Behavior (6th ed.). Macmillan/Worth Publishers

link ebook access:

https://www.macmillanlearning.com/college/ca/product/Introduction-to-Brain-and-Behavior/p/1319107370


Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

TEACHING AT SFU IN SUMMER 2020

Please note that all teaching at SFU in summer term 2020 will be conducted through remote methods. Enrollment in this course acknowledges that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who believe they may need class or exam accommodations, including in the current context of remote learning, are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as soon as possible to ensure that they are eligible and that approved accommodations and services are implemented in a timely fashion.