The College of Wooster
Department of Psychology

PSYC323:  Neuroscience: Mind and Behavior
Professor Amy Jo Stavnezer

Course Description:
      The main goal of this course is to provide you with a thorough overview of the biological basis of behavior.  Research in Neuroscience, and the information that we will cover this semester, spans all levels of the organism: single cells, single neurotransmitter systems, brain regions and the entire integrated organism.  We will explore specific functions of brain regions and relate that neurological functioning to behaviors in everyday life.  We will see that our brain is actually two halves that have slightly different functions and when working properly communicate with one another with millisecond timing.  We will learn the specific functions of chemicals located in the brain and how drug treatments for psychological disorders are aimed at modulating these endogenous chemicals.  We will determine how our senses combine with previous knowledge to allow for perception of the world around us.  We will determine which brain structures are responsible for learning and memory and what the consequences are when these structures are damaged by trauma or aging.

            Because the field and research methods of Neuroscience are broad, throughout the semester we will encounter evidence from basic research, applied research, animal research, human research, empirical research articles and textbook readings, which will come from a variety of subdisciplines within Neuroscience.  There are many interesting and timely topics that we will cover this semester and I hope that at least one topic area increases your curiosity, enthusiasm and interest in the brain.  I find most everything about neuroscience to be fascinating (the fact that we are still exploring it, probing it for clues, cures and answers to very old questions) and will certainly do my best to impart that enthusiasm throughout the semester.

Classroom discussions and course-related assignments will enable you to understand and discuss:

á      landmark research in the field of neuroscience.

á      current research in the field of neuroscience.

á      limitations of our current understanding of the brain and its functions.

á      the interaction of nature and nurture on brain development.

á      the behavioral and biological effects of brain damage, disease, drugs, aging, and stress on behavior. 

á      neuronal plasticity in terms of learning and also recovery of function.

á      as well as to improve your critical thinking and writing skills.

Amy Jo Stavnezer     ajstavnezer@wooster.edu     Morgan 109     330-263-2215