The Brain - Neuroscience, Psychiatry and Psychology

Course Title: Understanding Science: The Brain – Neuroscience, Psychiatry and Psychology
Type of Course: Adult Education
Credit: Not credit-bearing

Week
Session Title

1. Overview of the Course / Neuroscience, Psychology and Psychiatry: What’s the Difference?

2. Basic Anatomy of the Brain 1 – Structures We Share with Other Animals

3. Basic Anatomy of the Brain 2 – Advanced Structures in the Human Brain

4. Localising Functions and the Senses

5. The Mystery of the Nerve Impulse and Chemicals in the Brain

6. What’s in There? Neuroscience Instruments for Mapping the Brain

7. Psychological and Psychiatric Tools for Investigating the Brain

8. Mental Illness and the Brain: Emotional Disorders of Depression and Anxiety

9. When the Brain ‘Loses Touch with Reality’: Psychosis

10. Organic Brain Injury: Dementia and Neurodegenerative Disorders

11. Bad Brain Science and Neuroethics: Case Studies You Won’t Believe

12. Hijacking Your Brain: Psychoactive Drugs, Motivation and Addiction

13. Intelligence and Learning

14. Language and the Brain

15. The Global Brain: Cultural Neuroscience

16. Mind vs Brain?: Consciousness

17. Dos and Don’ts for the Brain and Psychological Wellbeing: What You Can Do to Achieve Health in Both

18. The Brain on the Couch – Psychological Therapies and the Brain

Course Overview

This course offers an engaging exploration of the human brain, delving into its structure, functions, and the intricate relationship between neurological processes and behaviour. Participants will examine foundational concepts in neuroscience, psychology, and psychiatry, gaining insights into how these disciplines intersect to enhance our understanding of mental functioning. Topics include brain anatomy, neural communication, sensory processing, mental health disorders, neuroethics, and the impact of psychoactive substances. The course also addresses contemporary issues such as cultural neuroscience and consciousness.​

Designed for individuals without a scientific background, this introductory course employs interactive teaching methods, including discussions, group activities, and practical tasks, to facilitate a comprehensive and accessible learning experience.​

Required Previous Experience (if any)
None required.

Required Reading Material or Special Equipment Needed (if any)
None required.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this course, you will be better prepared to:

• Understand the basic structure and function of the human brain and its relevance to behaviour and mental processes.​

• Recognise the symptoms and underlying mechanisms of common neurological and psychiatric disorders.​

• Critically engage with contemporary debates and ethical considerations in neuroscience and psychology.​

Teaching and Learning Approach

The teaching and learning approach for this course combines tutor-led instruction, interactive discussions, group activities, and practical tasks to facilitate understanding of complex concepts. Classes are conducted face-to-face in a classroom setting, employing diverse teaching methods to engage students and accommodate varied learning styles. The approach fosters an inclusive and supportive environment, encouraging participants to share their perspectives and learn collaboratively.​

Additional Information

This course descriptor may be subject to change during the delivery of the course, depending on the specific direction and nature of the learner cohort, and is intended to be responsive to group dynamics as they emerge during the delivery of the course.