The Integrated Brain (PSYC30020)

Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

Availability
Semester 2
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There are more connections in a human brain than there are stars in the universe. This subject focuses on the brain as an integrated system and looks at how its many connected networks achieve coordinated effects, linking the mind to the brain and the body.

In exploring integration across the nervous system, this subject will examine topics such as the effects of neurotransmitters on emotions and behaviour, the nature of sleep and wakeful states and transitions between them, and mechanisms underlying the control of body movement. The connections between social factors and brain function will also be explored, as well as current ethical dilemmas in the field, such as the ethical consequences associated with recent technologies designed to alter our minds, or enhance brain function beyond normal healthy ranges.

Intended learning outcomes

Knowledge


On completion of the subject students will demonstrate knowledge of:

  • the connectivity that exists between the mind and body and the implications of this connectivity in understanding individual aspects of brain function;
  • the mechanisms that ensure coordinated activity and function across the integrated brain. 

Skills


On completion of the subject students will have developed skills to:

  • evaluate and draw conclusions from experimental research findings.
  • analyse and interpret experimental data accurately on the basis of appropriate analytical methods;

Application of knowledge and skills

 

On completion of this subject students will be able to apply their knowledge and skills to:

  • critically consider ethical consequences of neuroscientific advances that extend beyond the individual to society;
  • critically analyse scientific research papers.

Generic skills

Students will be given opportunity to develop skills:

  • in oral and written communication of scientific research.
  • to critically evaluate research findings.
  • to present and develop arguments for a position on a given topic.

Last updated: 14 March 2025

Eligibility and requirements

Prerequisites

None

Corequisites

None

Non-allowed subjects

None

Recommended background knowledge

Prior coursework in at least two Level 2 psychology subjects, including Biological Psychology, is recommended. Level 2 psychology subjects are: Biological Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and Personality & Social Psychology.

Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)

The University of Melbourne is committed to providing students with reasonable adjustments to assessment and participation under the Disability Standards for Education (2005), and the Assessment and Results Policy (MPF1326). Students are expected to meet the core participation requirements for their course. These can be viewed under Entry and Participation Requirements for the course outlines in the Handbook.

Further details on how to seek academic adjustments can be found on the Student Equity and Disability Support website: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/student-equity/home

Last updated: 14 March 2025

Assessment

DescriptionTimingPercentage

Assignment 1 in the form of short answer questions

  • 500 words (total)
Week 415%

Assignment 2 in the form of an essay

  • 1500 words
Mid semester35%

An examination

  • 2 hours
During the examination period50%
Hurdle requirement: Attendance of at least 80% of the laboratory classes. In case of failure to meet the attendance requirement, additional work related to the missed class activities (e.g., short 500 word essay on missed topic) will be required before a passing grade can be awarded.Throughout the teaching periodN/A

Last updated: 14 March 2025

Dates & times

  • Semester 2
    Principal coordinatorJulia Chan
    Mode of deliveryOn Campus (Parkville)
    Contact hours2 x 1 hour lectures plus a 1 hour tutorial per week
    Total time commitment170 hours
    Teaching period28 July 2025 to 26 October 2025
    Last self-enrol date 8 August 2025
    Census date 1 September 2025
    Last date to withdraw without fail26 September 2025
    Assessment period ends21 November 2025

    Semester 2 contact information

    Dr Julia Chan

    jchan@unimelb.edu.au

     

What do these dates mean

Visit this webpage to find out about these key dates, including how they impact on:

  • Your tuition fees, academic transcript and statements.
  • And for Commonwealth Supported students, your:
       -  Student Learning Entitlement. This applies to all students enrolled in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP).
     

    Subjects withdrawn after the census date (including up to the ‘last day to withdraw without fail’) count toward the Student Learning Entitlement.

Last updated: 14 March 2025

Further information

Last updated: 14 March 2025