Brain and Behavior Lecture Notes

Introduction by Professor Suzuki

• Course: Brain and Behavior
• Satisfies natural science requirement
• Focus: Neuroscience - understanding how the brain enables perception, memory, and behavior

Distinction Between Neuroscience and Psychology

• Psychology: Study of behavior
• Neuroscience: Study of brain functions, synapses, neurons, circuits

Course Overview

• Three Parts of the Course:
  1. Basic brain neuroanatomy
  2. Sensory and motor systems
  3. Higher cognitive functions
• New Lab: Create a digital atlas comparing sheep and human brains

Brain Cells

• Brain composed of:
  • Neurons
  • Glia
• Focus on neuron-glia interactions and synaptic communication

Sensory and Motor Systems

• Sensory systems: Vision, hearing, feeling, smell
• Motor systems: Organization for action in the world

Higher Cognitive Functions

• Topics: Learning, memory, emotion, language
• Highlight: Neurobiology of love

Course Goals

1. Inspiration: Nobel prize-winning science topics
2. Interaction: Interactive projects and class participation
3. Appreciation: Recognize neuroscience in everyday life

Course Logistics

• Filmed for Open Education Project
• Encouragement to interact, form study groups
• Homeworks: Media report, movie project related to neuroscience
• Exams: Two midterms, one comprehensive final
• Grading: 70% exams, 5% labs, 5% homework

Professor Suzuki’s Background

• Research: Neurophysiology of memory, effects of exercise on cognition
• Co-founder of Empowering Women in Science
• Runs a leadership and science dorm community
• Contact: Website, Twitter, email, office hours by appointment

Teaching Assistants

• Eric Nylund, Sarah (not present)
• Labs and course logistics managed by the Map office

Lecture and Lab Details

• Lectures: Mandatory, focus on specific book sections
• Labs: Mandatory, includes dissections and experiments
• Religious holiday accommodations

Key Topics and Concepts

• Human Brain Anatomy: Overview of brain structures
• Neuroscience and Art: Intersection of neuroscience and creativity
  • Example: Chuck Close and his unique approach to art
• Neuroscience Techniques: Contrast between historical and modern techniques
  • Golgi stains vs. GFP and Brainbow

Closing Remarks

• Encouragement to explore neuroscience's presence in various aspects of life
• Reminder about the importance of attending lectures and participating actively

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