Module Information

This module concentrates on the commonalities of nervous system structure and function, highlighting key aspects that relate to co-ordination of movement and specialised sensory functions in animals.
The module will lead to understanding of how signals and stimuli are transmitted, received, processed and integrated through the nervous system. In summary, students will gain an extensive understanding of how signals and stimuli are received, processed and integrated nervous system responses transmitted.

The module is visited early in Year 1 to introduce the nervous system, which links to almost all other body systems via their innervation and control. The module is revisited again near the end of Year 1 with a deeper look at the special sense organs, recap of the neurological system, and introduction to pathology of this system.

This module will provide an introduction to the key anatomical, physiological and biochemical concepts that result in the normal functions of animals’ nervous systems. Specific focus will be given to the generation of nerve signals in relation to a range of senses, movement control and other responses. The module will also discuss the developmental biology of these cells and tissues, in a section on embryology.
Employing lectures, anatomical practicals and small group learning seminars to educate students in this area, this module’s content will be the foundation of the Neurology, ophthalmology and special senses strand which will be revisited to later in the degree. This module links to all other body systems in terms of understanding their innervation and control. Specifically, in Year 1 students will study links to the locomotor system (in terms of sensory and motor innervation of muscles); the alimentary and cardiorespiratory systems (in terms of autonomic nervous control, movement of ingesta, and maintenance of vital functions); the urogenital systems (in terms of the somatic and autonomic functions of these systems); and the integument (in terms