Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2025 - BPK 415 D100

Neural Control of Movement (3)

Class Number: 6771

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, Thu, 8:30–10:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 16, 2025
    Wed, 12:00–3:00 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Instructor:

    Daniel Marigold
    dsm7@sfu.ca
    1 778 782-3499

  • Prerequisites:

    BPK 306 or BISC 305.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An in depth study of the neurophysiology of movement. Illustrates general principles of neural control by exploring specific movement tasks including standing, walking, reaching/grasping, and eye movements.

COURSE DETAILS:

Topics To Be Covered: 

  1. Fundamental concepts related to movement control 
  2. Neural control of eye movements
  3. Neural control of walking and spatial navigation 
  4. Neural control of reaching and grasping movements 

Concepts will also be applied to various neurological conditions. 

Mode of Teaching: 

Lecture: in-person. A few classes remote via Zoom. 

Office hours: via Zoom. 

 

Other Information: 

There are NO required textbooks for this course.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

  1. Integrate information regarding sensorimotor brain areas to explain how we perform specific movements 
  2. Use research examples to explain how a particular part of the nervous system is involved in the control of a specific movement (this includes the ability to interpret results of an experimental manipulation that illustrates the point) 
  3. Explain why certain neurological disorders present with specific signs and symptoms 
  4. Design experiments to test hypotheses regarding the role of a particular brain region in the control of movement 
  5. Suggest, and substantiate using research evidence on the neural control of movement, rehabilitation methods to treat neurological disorders and those at high risk of falls 

Grading

  • Mini Exam 15%
  • Final Exam 30%
  • Blog Assignment 15%
  • Infographic Assignments (Group-based) 40%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Because a couple of classes will run remote via Zoom, access to reliable internet is needed. Microphone for asking and answering questions. Webcam. 

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

It is the responsibility of the student to keep their BPK course outlines if they plan on furthering their education.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website 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

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.