N173: Human Neuropsychology is taught in Winter Quarter by Professor Michael Yassa.
Dr. Michael Yassa
Prerequisite: BIO SCI N110 or PSYCH 9A or PSCI 11A
Same as PSCI 163C, PSYCH 162N
Restriction: Charlie Dunlop School of Biological Sciences students have first consideration for enrollment. Cognitive Sciences Majors have first consideration for enrollment. Psychological Science Majors have first consideration for enrollment. Psychology and Social Behavior Majors have first consideration for enrollment. Psychology Majors have first consideration for enrollment.
Course Objective:
A survey of human brain disorders using a clinical case study approach to illustrate fundamental issues in studying brain and behavior. Topics include sensory deficits, attentional neglect, amnesia, cortical organization, clinical psychopathology, and more.
Sample Syllabus:
| # | Topic |
| 1 | Introduction, Policies and Procedures, Class Goals, Learning Techniques |
| Part 1 | The Brain and the Neuropsychologist’s Toolbox |
| 2 | Building Blocks of the Nervous System |
| 3 | Brain Cell Communication and Measuring Activity |
| 4 | Neuropsychological Assessment and Ethics |
| 5 | Split Brain Patients and Hemispheric Asymmetry |
| MIDTERM EXAM 1 | |
| Part 2 | Function and Dysfunction in the Nervous System |
| 6 | Functional Neuroanatomy |
| 7 | Vision and Audition |
| 8 | Somatosensory and Motor Control |
| 9 | Learning and Memory |
| 10 | Speech and Language |
| 11 | Personality, Decision Making, and Social Behavior |
| MIDTERM EXAM 2 | |
| Part 3 | Complex Disorders and Paths to Future Treatment |
| 12 | Emotional Regulation and Mood Disorders |
| 13 | Reward Systems and Drug Addiction |
| 14 | The Aging Brain and Dementia |
| 15 | Schizophrenia |
| 16 | Psychopathy: Inside the Criminal Mind |
| FINAL EXAM |