Module Specifications.
Current Academic Year 2024 - 2025
All Module information is indicative, and this portal is an interim interface pending the full upgrade of Coursebuilder and subsequent integration to the new DCU Student Information System (DCU Key).
As such, this is a point in time view of data which will be refreshed periodically. Some fields/data may not yet be available pending the completion of the full Coursebuilder upgrade and integration project. We will post status updates as they become available. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Date posted: September 2024
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Repeat examination Completion of online activities and repeat of final exam. |
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Description To provide a critical description and explanation of the biological basis of human behaviour and the theories of biological influences on behaviour. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning Outcomes 1. Critically consider the major theories and perspectives of biological psychology. 2. Describe how the central, autonomic nervous and endocrine systems are involved in psychological processes and explain how these systems interact. 3. Critically assess the strengths and limitations of using biological systems to explain human behaviour. 4. Critically consider contribution of genetics to human behaviour. 5. Demonstrate an advanced ability to describe and explain the impact of evolutionary theories on biopsychology 6. Critically explain and evaluate ethical issues in using humans and animals in biopsychological research. 7. Identify and explain biopsychological approaches to diagnosis and treatment and critically appraise current biopsychological research methods for diagnosis and treatment. 8. Define and critically evaluate the biopsychological bases for a range of substance abuse, affective, anxiety, psychotic and other psychiatric disorders. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and Learning Activities
Introduction to brain and behaviourGenetics, environment, physiological and evolutionary psychologyAnatomy, structure and organisation of the nervous systemNeural Conduction and Synaptic transmissionResearch Methods and Ethics of biopsychology: an introductionBiopsychology of Motivation (e.g., Sleep, dreaming and circadian rhythms; Drug addiction and reward)Biopsychology of Psychological/Psychiatric Disorders (e.g., Schizophrenia, Depression, Mania, Anxiety, etc.)Biopsychology of Emotion, Stress and Health | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List
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Other Resources None | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
This module should now be split into 30% CA and 70% Exam, with both components matching all learning outcomes. |