3 credits
Fall 2025 Lecture Upper Division
How does our brain learn? How are our memories created? We will discuss a range of learning processes from cellular and molecular mechanisms to perception and behavior. We will look at the history of the key concepts and discoveries, including the technological advances, such as optogenetics. Most of the research discussed will be from animal studies.
Learning Outcomes1Describe the cellular, molecular, and circuit-level mechanisms underlying learning and memory.
2Evaluate critically primary literature on learning and memory, with a focus on findings from animal models.
3Demonstrate an understanding of how tools like patch clamp, optogenetics have advanced the study of neural processes related to learning and memory.
4Relate neural mechanisms to behavioral outcomes, including how learning influences perception and decision-making.
5Outline the historical progression of major discoveries in the neurobiology of learning and memory.
6Apply course concepts to different topics in neuroscience, such as the development of therapies for memory-related disorders.
Prerequisites
Restrictions
made by Purdue students.