FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q. What are the general objectives of the course?
A. The general objective of W1010 is to introduce you to neuroscience, the study of the relationship between brain and behavior. Ultimately, researchers in neuroscience hope to unlock the secret of how changes at the cellular and molecular level can lead to mental processes such as memory, language and even consciousness. Reaching this goal requires an understanding of brain function from multiple levels of analysis -from the expression of genes, the communication between individual neurons to the functional organization of brain circuits and behavior. The material for the course is designed to give you a basic understanding of concepts and techniques of neuroscience.
A. Yes, as it satisfies a core requirement. For non-science majors, it will hopefully remove some of the mystery and apprehension associated with science, and provide you with the vocabulary to understand the debates about brain sciences, both scientific and political, that already enter the news and will continue to do so with increasing frequency in the future. However, it is a science course and deals with biology, as well as some physics, chemistry and math, but not beyond the basic highschool level. In all but the simplest of cases, I will always review the necessary physics and chemistry.
Q. Is this course appropriate for majors in biology, psychology, neuroscience & behavior, or pre-meds?
A. For students who expect to major in these fields or are just starting in their major, this course provides a preparation for many of the advanced courses.
Q. If I miss an exam, do I have to take the make-up exam at the same time as the next exam?
A. Yes. There are no exceptions to this rule.
Q. Are there any labs or papers in this course?
A. No.
Q. Can I write a paper or do a project for extra credit?
A. No, but performance on self-tests will be used when calculating the final grade.
Q. Will you put your notes in the library?
A. The slide shows used in class will be available on CourseWorks, but not the full text of my notes. If you miss a class, it is your responsibility to get the notes from someone in the class.
Q. Will you give us a copy of past exams from previous years?
A. Although we will not pass out past exams, we will give examples of exam questions in class. The self-tests also give you a good idea of the general level of the questions we will ask.
Q. Will you grade on a curve?
A. I will adjust grades upward if necessary. I will never lower grades to fit a curve.
A. Yes, this course fulfills the science requirement. If it is the first of a two-term sequence in the psychology department, it can be followed by 1001 or a 2200/2400 level course.