Credit Points 10

Legacy Code 101684

Coordinator Tamara Watson Opens in new window

Description This unit provides an introduction to the biological and neuroscientific bases of human behaviour. Topics covered include the chemistry of life, the molecular basis of life, the cell and some of the major organ systems of the human body with particular reference to the nervous, endocrine and sensory systems. The unit has a significant laboratory component which reinforces lecture and text material. Students will be introduced to the biological and neuroscientific concepts necessary for a thorough understanding of areas of psychology such as abnormal psychology, cognitive processes, developmental psychology, human learning, and physiological psychology.

School Psychology

Discipline Psychology

Student Contribution Band HECS Band 4 10cp

Check your HECS Band contribution amount via the Fees page.

Level Undergraduate Level 2 subject

Equivalent Subjects LGYA 0972 - Neuroscience

Restrictions

Note that only students enrolled at WSU Online may register in the WSU Online subjects offered at that location.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:

1. Explain how biological psychology is a scientific discipline and distinguish its major objectives (APAC Graduate Attribute 1).
2. Identify the major themes and perspectives of biological psychology (APAC GA 1).
3. Describe the structure and function of the central and peripheral nervous system (APAC GA 1)
4. Analyse the major theoretical and empirical perspectives associated with various brain processes, and evaluate how these processes impact mental functioning and behaviour (APAC GA 1);
5. Apply knowledge of biological psychology to explain a range of clinical conditions.
6. Appraise the effectiveness of demonstrations that address theories and propositions in biological psychology, evaluate the associated research hypotheses; undertake a relevant literature search; summarise the salient points and formulate a conclusion in a literature review (APAC GA 2 and 5).
7. Distinguish biological psychology as a scientific discipline and explain its major objectives.
8. Identify the major themes and perspectives of biological psychology.
9. Describe the structure and function of the central and peripheral nervous system.
10. Analyse the major theoretical and empirical perspectives associated with various brain processes, and evaluate how these processes impact mental functioning and behaviour.
11. Appraise the effectiveness of demonstrated theories and propositions in biological psychology by conducting a phased literature review responding to an associated hypothesis.

Subject Content

1. Nervous system 1
2. Nervous system 2
3. Neurotransmitters
4. Sensory systems
5. Movement
6. Learning and memory
7. Neuroplasticity
8. Emotion and stress
9. Hunger
10. Anxiety and depression
11. Psychosis
12. Drugs and addiction