Semester.ly

Johns Hopkins University | AS.020.312

Introduction to the Human Brain

3.0

credits

Average Course Rating

(3.49)

This course explores the outstanding problem of biology: how knowledge is represented in the brain. Relating insights from cognitive psychology and systems neuroscience with formal theories of learning and memory, topics include (1) anatomical and functional relations of cerebral cortex, basal ganglia, limbic system, thalamus, cerebellum, and spinal cord; (2) cortical anatomy and physiology including laminar/columnar organization, intrinsic cortical circuit, hierarchies of cortical areas; (3) activity-dependent synaptic mechanisms; (4) functional brain imaging; (5) logicist and connectist theories of cognition; and (6) relation of mental representations and natural language.

Spring 2013

(2.94)

Spring 2014

(3.61)

Spring 2015

(3.69)

Spring 2023

(3.73)

Spring 2013

Professor: Edward Hedgecock

(2.94)

The best aspects of this course were the tests that reliably corresponded with class content and the availability of lecture notes on Blackboard. Some students appreciated the 6-assessment grading system because it provided multiple opportunities to raise their grade while some students felt that the six assessments given were too frequent and demanding. Also, a number of students mentioned that the instructor was too soft-spoken, often making it difficult to follow along during a lecture. Suggestions for improvement included returning assessment grades faster and providing a clearer, more organized method for delivering lectures. Prospective students are encouraged to take advantage of the available study guides and PowerPoint slides.

Spring 2014

Professor: Edward Hedgecock

(3.61)

Study guides, test questions, and lectures, are all available for students online, and the material covered was interesting. However, there was no incentive to attend lecture and the instructor was often difficult to hear or understand. More engaging lectures, updated material, and required attendance would improve the course. Prospective students should know that it is not necessary to have background knowledge on the brain, but you wil need one for this course.

Spring 2015

Professor: Edward Hedgecock

(3.69)

The best aspect of the course was the light, low-stress workload that included take home exams and the ability to choose topics for term papers. Students enjoyed the subject matter discussed in class, and appreciated that the detailed and well organized lecture notes were available online. Many students claimed that the feedback on assignments was minimal, and that the turnaround time was very slow. Further, students suggested that the lectures were boring, and that there was not any incentive to go to class. This class could be improved by incorporating clicker questions to make class more interactive. Prospective students should know they do not need a background in neuroscience.

Spring 2023

Professor: Edward Hedgecock

(3.73)