Module Overview
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.
Introduction
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.
Prerequisites
Before starting this module, it will be helpful to be familiar with:
- The general principles of electrical conduction,
- Positive and negative charges,
- Units of time involving milliseconds and units of charge involving millivolts.
- Planar views of three-dimensional structures
Learning Outcomes
Neurons
- Locate and name the five main parts of a neuron.
- Outline the flow of information through a neuron.
- Explain the “all or none” principle of action potentials.
- Describe the interaction that takes place at the synapse.
The Brain
- Locate and name the four main lobes of the cortices, and summarize each lobe’s primary function.
- Identify grey matter and white matter, and differentiate their roles.
- Support the idea that the brain is comprised of both localized and distributed functions.
- Give two examples of how modern brain imaging techniques have advanced the study of neuroscience.
Anatomical Orientation
- Label the six main terms that describe the three orientation planes of the brain.
- Draw coronal, horizontal, and sagittal sections/slices.
PROJECT FILES
| Title | Author | Description |
|---|---|---|
 Neuron |  Download File (376.98 KB) |
Dr. Peter Coppin | CC BY |
|
Neuron Firing Threshold | Download File (1.29 MB) |
Dr. Peter Coppin | CC BY |
|
Left Hemisphere | Download File (852.48 KB) |
Dr. Peter Coppin | CC BY |
|
Left Cerebral Cortex | Download File (137.28 KB) |
Dr. Peter Coppin | CC BY |
|
Side Orientation | Download File (677.36 KB) |
Dr. Peter Coppin | CC BY |
|
Top Orientation | Download File (763.9 KB) |
Dr. Peter Coppin | CC BY |
|
Section Planes | Download File (630.91 KB) |
Dr. Peter Coppin | CC BY |
|
Horizontal Slice | Download File (1.18 MB) |
Dr. Peter Coppin | CC BY |
| Title | Author | Description |
|---|---|---|
 Brain Architecture (Storyline File) |
Andrea Jovanovic |
This Storyline File can be downloaded and modified to your specific learning objectives (within the bounds of the creative commons licensing selected for this file. This is encouraged, but any technical issues are not supported by the University of Toronto. |
|
Brain Architecture (SCORM Package) |
Andrea Jovanovic |
This SCORM package can be uploaded into your institution's Learning Management System. |
| Title | Author | Description |
|---|---|---|
 Neurons |  Download File (3.62 MB) |
Andrea Jovanovic |
This file could be used by an instructor in the classroom to present this material. |
|
Neurons (Notes Pages) | Download File (236.56 KB) |
Andrea Jovanovic |
This file could be shared with students for taking notes while participating in the module. |
