Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2021 - BISC 423 D100

Developmental Neurobiology (3)

Class Number: 2444

Delivery Method: Remote

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 11 – Apr 16, 2021: Mon, Wed, Fri, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 20, 2021
    Tue, 11:59–11:59 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    BISC 101, BISC 102, BISC 202, MBB 222, MBB 231; all with a grade of C- or better. Recommended: BISC 333 or MBB 331.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

All aspects of neuronal development from the specification of neurons in the early embryo to the formation and maturation of neuronal circuits. Both invertebrate and vertebrate model organisms will be studied with emphasis on the molecular basis of nervous system development. Students with credit for MBB 444 may not take this course for further credit. Students who have taken Special Topics BISC 472 or BISC 474 Nervous System Development may not take this course for further credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

This is an introductory course in Developmental Neurobiology. It will cover various aspects of neuronal development beginning with the specification of neurons and regionalization of the developing nervous system in the early embryo. We will follow the birth and differentiation of neurons, their axon outgrowth and navigation as well as synaptic target selection and the formation and maturation of neuronal circuits. The various developmental processes will be presented using studies from both invertebrate and vertebrate model organisms with emphasis on the molecular basis of nervous system development. Selected topics will be explored in more detail using primary literature.

Grading

  • Tutorials 10%
  • Online Quizzes 20%
  • Midterm Exam 20%
  • Final Exam 50%

NOTES:

The grading scheme is preliminary.

REQUIREMENTS:

This course will be delivered remotely. To successfully participate in this course, you need internet access suitable for videoconferencing, a computer or tablet (a phone is not sufficient) with camera and microphone and a quiet study area during tutorial time. Most course components will be delivered asynchronously (you can access them on your own schedule), but tutorials will be synchronous, i.e. you have to be present (via videoconference) during your tutorial time. The midterm and final exams will be take- home (open book) exams.

Mode of teaching:
Lecture: asynchronous (recorded)
Tutorial: synchronous
Midterm: take-home exam; date: TBA
Final exam: take-home exam; date: TBA

Materials

RECOMMENDED READING:

Development of the Nervous System, 4th Edition
Authors: Dan Sanes, Thomas Reh, William Harris, Matthias Landgraf
eBook ISBN: 9780128040287
Hardcover ISBN: 9780128039960
Primary literature will be used in addition to the textbook.


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 SPRING 2021

Teaching at SFU in spring 2021 will be conducted primarily through remote methods. There will be in-person course components in a few exceptional cases where this is fundamental to the educational goals of the course. Such course components will be clearly identified at registration, as will course components that will be “live” (synchronous) vs. at your own pace (asynchronous). Enrollment 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. To ensure you can access all course materials, we recommend you have access to a computer with a microphone and camera, and the internet. In some cases your instructor may use Zoom or other means requiring a camera and microphone to invigilate exams. If proctoring software will be used, this will be confirmed in the first week of class.

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).