Brain Architecture

In this module, the structure and functions of neurons are presented, along with the overall structure of the brain. Common methods for visualizing two dimensional slices of the three dimensional brain re also explained. This module begins with a brief review of neuronal transmission and the function of neurons. The module then reviews in detail the structure of the neuron and the concept of an action potential. Axonal transmission is then covered. The neuron is presented as the fundamental building block of the brain. After that the focus moves to the whole brain and to the various regions within the brain.

Students typically have a rough idea of what neurons are but many properties of neurons are unfamiliar to them. Common misconceptions include the idea that only one excitatory input is needed to fire a neuron, and that all inputs are excitatory. This module addresses these issues and shows that thousands of incoming synapses may be involved in firing a neuron, and that many of these inputs may be inhibitory rather than excitatory.

Students typically have a good understanding of the overall structure of the brain but are not familiar with the different parts of the brain and their functions.

This module consists three videos. The first video shows how what neurons are and how they work. The second video walks through the major parts of the brain including the cerebrum, subcortical structures, cerebellum, and brain stem. The third video shows show different types of slice are made through the brain to provide detailed two dimensional perspectives within the three-dimensional structure.It is expected that the course instructor will supplement the module with additional material on brain structure and function relating to particular structures such as the thalamus and hippocampus, as required.

Before starting this module, it will be helpful to be familiar with: