Available in 2024
Course code

PSYC2400

Units

10 units

Level

2000 level

Course handbook

Description

Biological psychology is the study of the biological bases of behaviour. PSYC2400 covers core introductory topics in biological psychology which examine the way in which the nervous system integrates activity at many levels, from the micro level of molecular changes in nerve cells to a macro level of whole systems. PSYC2400 also examines biological bases of behaviour in terms of human anatomy, physiology, and evolution and includes selected topics in neuroscience and their relevance to psychology. The laboratory program extends and develops the lecture material and provides additional practical topics that introduce students to basic research methods and techniques in Biological Psychology. Forms part of an Australian Psychology Accreditation Council's accredited undergraduate sequence in psychology. Related courses: PSYC2300, PSYC2500, PSYC3301, PSYC3500


Availability2024 Course Timetables

Callaghan

  • Semester 2 - 2024

Ourimbah

  • Semester 2 - 2024

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course students will be able to:

1. Recognise the biological bases of behaviour through knowledge of human neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, genes, hormones and evolution.

2. Describe the ways in which behaviour is dependent on the integration of neural activity at the molecular, cellular and network levels.

3. Integrate fundamental aspects of neurophysiology for the production of simple and complex behaviour at a systems level.

4. Record human physiological activity and relate that to psychological activity.

5. Write a short scientific report that reflects careful, accurate description of procedures and techniques, and demonstrates understanding of the links between data and theory in Biological Psychology.


Content

  • Mechanisms of individual neurons
  • Ways in which neurons integrate their activity
  • Anatomy of neurons and the nervous system
  • Mechanisms underlying complex behaviours such as sensory and motor behaviour
  • Behavioural consequences of common nervous system disorders

Assumed knowledge

PSYC1010 and PSYC1020. A 1000 level biology course is recommended.


Assessment items

In Term Test: Mid-Semester Exam

Report: Written Lab Report

Online Open Book Formal Examination: Final Formal Exam

Portfolio: Lab Portfolio/Book


Contact hours

Semester 2 - 2024 - Callaghan

Laboratory-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 7 week(s) starting in week 3
Lecture-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1

Semester 2 - 2024 - Ourimbah

Laboratory-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 7 week(s) starting in week 3
Lecture-1
  • Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1

Course outline