BNS3052

Drugs, brain and altered awareness

(MED)

Associate Professor Jenny Redman

6 points + Second semester + Clayton + Four 1-hour lectures and One 2-hour practical class or equivalent per week + Prerequisite: BMS1052 or equivalent by permission + Prohibition: PSY3102

Synopsis: This unit examines neurobiological mechanisms that underlie changes in awareness. Clinical, prescribed and recreational drugs are discussed in regard to their modes of action on brain cells, the regions of brain targetted and their effects on cognition and behaviour. They are compared with other altered states of awareness including circadian rhythms, sleep, coma, hypnosis, meditation, delirium, amnesia, dementia, psychoses and affective disorders. Emphasis is placed on the notion that awareness results from the integration of cellular activity in the brain, and that subtle changes in this pattern of activity can dramatically alter awareness, cognition and behaviour.

Assessment: Mid-semester written theory examination (short answer and/or MCQ, 1 hour): 30% + End of semester written theory examination (short answer and/or MCQ, 1 hour): 30% + Three written practical reports (500 words each, equally weighted): 15% + Website design and development: 25%