We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
David Cox
Neurons in isolation are fascinating and complicated, but the real magic of neuroscience happens in the interaction between neurons. In this course, we examine how neurons pass signals to one another and how complex dynamics can result from just a few neurons arranged in relatively simple circuits.
Continue your journey through our Fundamentals of Neuroscience series with animations that explore the richness and complexity of the brain, documentaries about working labs around Cambridge.
Read more
Neurons in isolation are fascinating and complicated, but the real magic of neuroscience happens in the interaction between neurons. In this course, we examine how neurons pass signals to one another and how complex dynamics can result from just a few neurons arranged in relatively simple circuits.
Continue your journey through our Fundamentals of Neuroscience series with animations that explore the richness and complexity of the brain, documentaries about working labs around Cambridge.
Read more
Neurons in isolation are fascinating and complicated, but the real magic of neuroscience happens in the interaction between neurons. In this course, we examine how neurons pass signals to one another and how complex dynamics can result from just a few neurons arranged in relatively simple circuits.
Continue your journey through our Fundamentals of Neuroscience series with animations that explore the richness and complexity of the brain, documentaries about working labs around Cambridge.
Join us as we use virtual labs that simulate neuron circuitry as we investigate the collective behavior of neurons and learn how the brain modulates the signals in those networks.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/n5vt4u/edx
What's inside
Learning objectives
- Basics of synapses
- How neurons communicate with each other
- How interconnected neurons in neuronal circuits interact with each other
- The role of neuromodulation in the firing of synapses
- Basics of synapses
- How neurons communicate with each other
- How interconnected neurons in neuronal circuits interact with each other
- The role of neuromodulation in the firing of synapses
Syllabus
Neurons in isolation are fascinating and complex, but the real magic of neuroscience becomes manifest when we consider how neurons interact with one another. In this module, we examine how neurons pass signals to one another, and we explore how complex dynamics can result from even small numbers of neurons arranged in relatively simple circuits.Lesson1: The SynapseThe junctions between neurons, called synapses, allow information to pass from one neuron to another. In lesson 1 “The Synapse,” we explore what synapses are made of, and how they work.
Read more
Syllabus
Neurons in isolation are fascinating and complex, but the real magic of neuroscience becomes manifest when we consider how neurons interact with one another. In this module, we examine how neurons pass signals to one another, and we explore how complex dynamics can result from even small numbers of neurons arranged in relatively simple circuits.Lesson1: The SynapseThe junctions between neurons, called synapses, allow information to pass from one neuron to another. In lesson 1 “The Synapse,” we explore what synapses are made of, and how they work.
Read more
Lesson 2: Excitation & InhibitionSynapses can be grouped into two categories: synapses that increase the activity of the postsynaptic neuron are called excitatory synapses, while those that decrease its activity are called inhibitory synapses. In lesson 2 “Excitation & Inhibition,” we discuss the main differences between excitatory and inhibitory synapses.
Lesson 3: Small CircuitsNeurons combine information from many synapses at once in a process known as synaptic integration. In lesson 3 “Small Circuits,” we explore how a neuron integrates information from multiple synapses over time to allow complex signaling.
Lesson 4: NeuromodulationHow many components are there in a synapse? You may think that the answer is simple: two, the presynaptic and the postsynaptic terminals. In lesson 4 “Neuromodulation,” we’ll see that this is not entirely true: the strength of many synapses is directly influenced by a third neuron, in a process called neuromodulation.
Lesson 5: Potentiation & DepressionOne of the most amazing properties of the nervous system is its ability to adapt and change in the face of a changing environment, a phenomenon called "neuronal plasticity." Lesson 5, “Potentiation and Depression,” focuses on how neuronal plasticity occurs in the brain, and how it shapes the way we think and behave.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Examines the fundamentals of neuroscience including neurons, synapses, and circuits
Teaches the basics of synapses, how neurons communicate, and how neuronal circuits interact
Explores the role of neuromodulation in the firing of synapses
Develops an understanding of how neurons pass signals to one another
Strengthens an existing foundation for beginners in neuroscience
Taught by David Cox, an experienced instructor in neuroscience
Save this course
Save Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 2: Neurons and Networks to your list so you can find it easily later:
Save
Save
Reviews summary
Solid neuroscience course
Learners say this course offers a solid introduction to the fundamentals of neuroscience, including the structure and function of neurons and neural networks. Students largely enjoyed the well-structured lectures and found the engaging assignments to be helpful in reinforcing key concepts.
Assignments help reinforce key concepts.
"Aprender más sobre la neurociencia y fundamentos principales del funcionamiento, y la capacidad se como se va procesando los pensamientos"
The course is organized in a clear and logical manner.
"As a researcher, acquired more knowledge is very paramount to those who are very much interested in teaching and learning."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 2: Neurons and Networks with these
activities:
Refresh knowledge of basic neuroscience concepts
Show steps
Review the basics of neuroscience, including the structure and function of neurons, the different types of neurotransmitters, and the basics of synaptic transmission.
Browse courses on
Neurons
Show steps
-
Read a textbook chapter or online article on the basics of neuroscience.
-
Review your notes from a previous neuroscience course.
-
Take a practice quiz on basic neuroscience concepts.
Watch a video tutorial on the synaptic transmission process
Show steps
Watch a video tutorial that explains the process of synaptic transmission, including the steps of neurotransmitter release, receptor binding, and postsynaptic response.
Show steps
-
Find a video tutorial on synaptic transmission.
-
Watch the video and take notes.
Practice identifying different types of neurons
Show steps
Practice identifying different types of neurons based on their morphology, including pyramidal cells, stellate cells, and basket cells.
Browse courses on
Neurons
Show steps
-
Use an online tool or app to practice identifying different types of neurons.
-
Draw different types of neurons from memory.
-
Label the different parts of a neuron.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Read a chapter from a neuroscience textbook
Show steps
Read a chapter from a neuroscience textbook to supplement your learning.
View
Principles of Neural Science, Fifth Edition...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Choose a chapter that is relevant to the course material.
-
Read the chapter and take notes.
-
Summarize the main points of the chapter.
Create a mind map of the different types of neurotransmitters
Show steps
Create a mind map that includes the different types of neurotransmitters, their functions, and their target receptors.
Browse courses on
Neurotransmitters
Show steps
-
Research the different types of neurotransmitters.
-
Create a mind map using a tool like MindMeister or XMind.
-
Add information about the functions and target receptors of each neurotransmitter.
Discuss the different types of synaptic plasticity with a classmate
Show steps
Discuss the different types of synaptic plasticity, such as long-term potentiation and long-term depression, with a classmate.
Browse courses on
Synaptic Plasticity
Show steps
-
Find a classmate who is also taking the course.
-
Schedule a time to meet and discuss the topic.
-
Come prepared to the discussion with notes and questions.
Create a presentation on the role of neuromodulators in brain function
Show steps
Create a presentation that explains the role of neuromodulators in brain function, including their effects on attention, memory, and mood.
Browse courses on
Brain Function
Show steps
-
Research the role of neuromodulators in brain function.
-
Create a presentation using a tool like PowerPoint or Google Slides.
-
Include information on the different types of neuromodulators, their functions, and their target receptors.
Contribute to an open-source neuroscience project
Show steps
Contribute to an open-source neuroscience project to gain hands-on experience with real-world neuroscience data and tools.
Browse courses on
Computational Neuroscience
Show steps
-
Find an open-source neuroscience project to contribute to.
-
Read the project documentation and familiarize yourself with the codebase.
-
Identify a small task or feature to work on.
Refresh knowledge of basic neuroscience concepts
Show steps
Review the basics of neuroscience, including the structure and function of neurons, the different types of neurotransmitters, and the basics of synaptic transmission.
Browse courses on
Neurons
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read a textbook chapter or online article on the basics of neuroscience.
- Review your notes from a previous neuroscience course.
- Take a practice quiz on basic neuroscience concepts.
Watch a video tutorial on the synaptic transmission process
Show steps
Watch a video tutorial that explains the process of synaptic transmission, including the steps of neurotransmitter release, receptor binding, and postsynaptic response.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a video tutorial on synaptic transmission.
- Watch the video and take notes.
Practice identifying different types of neurons
Show steps
Practice identifying different types of neurons based on their morphology, including pyramidal cells, stellate cells, and basket cells.
Browse courses on
Neurons
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Use an online tool or app to practice identifying different types of neurons.
- Draw different types of neurons from memory.
- Label the different parts of a neuron.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Read a chapter from a neuroscience textbook
Show steps
Read a chapter from a neuroscience textbook to supplement your learning.
View
Principles of Neural Science, Fifth Edition...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a chapter that is relevant to the course material.
- Read the chapter and take notes.
- Summarize the main points of the chapter.
Create a mind map of the different types of neurotransmitters
Show steps
Create a mind map that includes the different types of neurotransmitters, their functions, and their target receptors.
Browse courses on
Neurotransmitters
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research the different types of neurotransmitters.
- Create a mind map using a tool like MindMeister or XMind.
- Add information about the functions and target receptors of each neurotransmitter.
Discuss the different types of synaptic plasticity with a classmate
Show steps
Discuss the different types of synaptic plasticity, such as long-term potentiation and long-term depression, with a classmate.
Browse courses on
Synaptic Plasticity
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a classmate who is also taking the course.
- Schedule a time to meet and discuss the topic.
- Come prepared to the discussion with notes and questions.
Create a presentation on the role of neuromodulators in brain function
Show steps
Create a presentation that explains the role of neuromodulators in brain function, including their effects on attention, memory, and mood.
Browse courses on
Brain Function
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research the role of neuromodulators in brain function.
- Create a presentation using a tool like PowerPoint or Google Slides.
- Include information on the different types of neuromodulators, their functions, and their target receptors.
Contribute to an open-source neuroscience project
Show steps
Contribute to an open-source neuroscience project to gain hands-on experience with real-world neuroscience data and tools.
Browse courses on
Computational Neuroscience
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find an open-source neuroscience project to contribute to.
- Read the project documentation and familiarize yourself with the codebase.
- Identify a small task or feature to work on.
Career center
Learners who complete Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 2: Neurons and Networks will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Neuroscience Professor
Neuroscience Professor
A Neuroscience Professor teaches and conducts research in the field of neuroscience at a college or university. They develop and deliver lectures, lead discussions, and mentor students. The Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 2: Neurons and Networks course provides a strong foundation for this career by teaching the basics of synapses, how neurons communicate with each other, and how interconnected neurons in neuronal circuits interact with each other.
Research Scientist
Research Scientist
A Research Scientist performs research to contribute to new or existing knowledge in the field of neuroscience. They design experiments, collect data, analyze data, and write research papers. The Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 2: Neurons and Networks course provides a strong foundation for this career by teaching the basics of synapses, how neurons communicate with each other, and how interconnected neurons in neuronal circuits interact with each other.
Computational Neuroscientist
Computational Neuroscientist
A Computational Neuroscientist uses computer models and simulations to study the nervous system. They develop and test models of neurons, neural networks, and brain regions to better understand how the brain works. The Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 2: Neurons and Networks course provides a strong foundation for this career by teaching the basics of synapses, how neurons communicate with each other, and how interconnected neurons in neuronal circuits interact with each other.
Neuroengineer
Neuroengineer
A Neuroengineer designs and develops devices and technologies to diagnose and treat neurological disorders. They work closely with neurologists, neurosurgeons, and other medical professionals to develop new and innovative ways to improve the lives of patients. The Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 2: Neurons and Networks course provides a strong foundation for this career by teaching the basics of synapses, how neurons communicate with each other, and how interconnected neurons in neuronal circuits interact with each other.
Neurophysiologist
Neurophysiologist
A Neurophysiologist studies the electrical activity of the nervous system. They use electroencephalography (EEG) and other techniques to record and analyze brain waves, and work closely with neurologists and neurosurgeons to diagnose and treat neurological disorders. The Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 2: Neurons and Networks course provides a strong foundation for this career by teaching the basics of synapses, how neurons communicate with each other, and how interconnected neurons in neuronal circuits interact with each other.
Neuropharmacologist
Neuropharmacologist
A Neuropharmacologist studies the effects of drugs on the nervous system. They develop and test new drugs to treat neurological disorders, and work closely with neurologists and neurosurgeons to provide the best possible care for their patients. The Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 2: Neurons and Networks course provides a strong foundation for this career by teaching the basics of synapses, how neurons communicate with each other, and how interconnected neurons in neuronal circuits interact with each other.
Neuroethologist
Neuroethologist
A Neuroethologist studies the neural basis of behavior. They investigate how the brain controls movement, emotion, and cognition in animals. The Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 2: Neurons and Networks course provides a foundation in the basics of synapses, how neurons communicate with each other, and how interconnected neurons in neuronal circuits interact with each other.
Behavioral Neuroscientist
Behavioral Neuroscientist
A Behavioral Neuroscientist studies the relationship between the brain and behavior. They investigate how the brain controls movement, emotion, and cognition. The Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 2: Neurons and Networks course provides a foundation in the basics of synapses, how neurons communicate with each other, and how interconnected neurons in neuronal circuits interact with each other.
Cognitive Neuroscientist
Cognitive Neuroscientist
A Cognitive Neuroscientist studies the neural basis of cognition. They use a variety of techniques, including fMRI, PET, and EEG, to investigate how the brain processes information. The Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 2: Neurons and Networks course provides a foundation in the basics of synapses, how neurons communicate with each other, and how interconnected neurons in neuronal circuits interact with each other.
Systems Neuroscientist
Systems Neuroscientist
A Systems Neuroscientist studies the brain as a complex system. They use a variety of techniques, including mathematical modeling, computer simulations, and animal studies, to investigate how the brain integrates information from different regions and how it gives rise to behavior. The Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 2: Neurons and Networks course provides a foundation in the basics of synapses, how neurons communicate with each other, and how interconnected neurons in neuronal circuits interact with each other.
Developmental Neuroscientist
Developmental Neuroscientist
A Developmental Neuroscientist studies the development of the nervous system. They investigate how the brain and spinal cord grow and change from conception to adulthood. The Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 2: Neurons and Networks course provides a foundation in the basics of synapses, how neurons communicate with each other, and how interconnected neurons in neuronal circuits interact with each other.
Neurosurgeon
Neurosurgeon
A Neurosurgeon is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of disorders of the nervous system. They perform complex surgeries on the brain and spinal cord, and work closely with neurologists to provide the best possible care for their patients. The Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 2: Neurons and Networks course may be useful for a Neurosurgeon, as it provides a strong foundation in the basics of synapses, how neurons communicate with each other, and how interconnected neurons in neuronal circuits interact with each other.
Neuropsychologist
Neuropsychologist
A Neuropsychologist studies the relationship between the brain and behavior. They assess and diagnose brain injuries and disorders, and develop rehabilitation plans to help patients recover their cognitive and behavioral abilities. The Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 2: Neurons and Networks course may be useful for a Neuropsychologist, as it provides a foundation in the basics of synapses, how neurons communicate with each other, and how interconnected neurons in neuronal circuits interact with each other.
Neurologist
Neurologist
A Neurologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the nervous system. They work closely with neurosurgeons to provide the best possible care for their patients. The Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 2: Neurons and Networks course may be useful for a Neurologist, as it provides a foundation in the basics of synapses, how neurons communicate with each other, and how interconnected neurons in neuronal circuits interact with each other.
Neuroimmunologist
Neuroimmunologist
A Neuroimmunologist studies the relationship between the nervous system and the immune system. They investigate how the brain and spinal cord interact with the immune system to maintain health and fight disease.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/n5vt4u/edx
Reading list
We've selected 26 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 2: Neurons and Networks.
This is one of the most comprehensive textbooks in neuroscience. It covers a wide range of topics, from the basic principles of neuroscience to the latest advances in the field.
This textbook provides an introduction to the computational principles that underlie neural function.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the nervous system, from the molecular level to the cognitive level. Includes helpful illustrations and diagrams.
Nobel Laureate Eccles covers the key principles of brain function, with an emphasis on how information is processed in neuronal networks. He presents an in-depth look into synaptic transmission and neural circuits.
Provides a detailed overview of the structure and function of ion channels.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the anatomy of the nervous system.
Save
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of cognitive neuroscience. Especially relevant for students interested in the cognitive and behavioral aspects of neuroscience.
Provides a general overview of the human brain.
Provides a popular account of the differences between the left and right hemispheres of the brain.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of biological psychology. Includes helpful illustrations and diagrams.
Provides a popular account of the plasticity of the brain.
This atlas provides a detailed overview of the structure of the nervous system.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the human brain. Includes helpful illustrations and diagrams. Provides a good overview of the anatomical and functional organization of the human brain.
Explores the relationship between the mind and the physical world.
Explores the relationship between logic, mathematics, music, and art.
Save
Provides a detailed overview of the synaptic organization of the brain. Especially relevant for students interested in the cellular and molecular basis of neural circuits.
Save
Provides a popular account of the science of chaos.
Save
Provides a popular account of the science of complexity.
Save
Presents a new theory of intelligence.
Save
Explores the relationship between science and religion.
An accessible and engaging textbook that introduces students to the field of biological psychology. explores the relationship between brain, behavior, and cognition, and provides a solid foundation for further study in neuroscience.
Save
Explores the relationship between the mind and the body.
This textbook provides a detailed overview of the clinical neuroanatomy.
A comprehensive and up-to-date textbook that provides a broad overview of cognitive neuroscience. covers a wide range of topics, from attention and memory to language and social cognition.
A highly detailed and comprehensive atlas of the human nervous system. provides a wealth of anatomical information and is an essential resource for neuroscientists and clinicians alike.
Save
A classic textbook that provides a comprehensive overview of the neurobiology of learning and memory. covers topics ranging from synaptic plasticity to the neural basis of memory disorders.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/n5vt4u/edx
Share
Similar courses
Here are nine courses similar to
Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 2: Neurons and Networks.
Simulation Neuroscience
OpenCourser.com/course/rzhuk7/simulation
Simulation Neuroscience
Most relevant
Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 1: The Electrical Properties of the Neuron
OpenCourser.com/course/6jqe9v/edx
Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 1: The Electrical...
Most relevant
Cellular Mechanisms of Brain Function
OpenCourser.com/course/ihlou7/cellular
Cellular Mechanisms of Brain Function
Most relevant
Computational Neuroscience: Neuronal Dynamics of Cognition
OpenCourser.com/course/9yr3i7/computational
Computational Neuroscience: Neuronal Dynamics of Cognition
Most relevant
Neuronal Dynamics
OpenCourser.com/course/rzablr/edx
Neuronal Dynamics
Most relevant
Fundamentals of Neuroscience Final Exam
OpenCourser.com/course/b0jbae/fundamentals
Fundamentals of Neuroscience Final Exam
Most relevant
Simulating a Hippocampus Microcircuit
OpenCourser.com/course/cwtklo/simulating
Simulating a Hippocampus Microcircuit
Most relevant
Synapses, Neurons and Brains
OpenCourser.com/course/iwwfrg/synapses
Synapses, Neurons and Brains
Most relevant
Neuroscience Reconstructed: Genetics and Development
OpenCourser.com/course/h1fwmm/neuroscience
Neuroscience Reconstructed: Genetics and Development
Most relevant
Effort
3 to 5 hours per week for 6 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
Harvard University
Instructor
David Cox
Language
English
Transcript
English
Good to know
Examines the fundamentals of neuroscience including neurons, synapses, and circuits
Teaches the basics of synapses, how neurons communicate, and how neuronal circuits interact
Explores the role of neuromodulation in the firing of synapses
Develops an understanding of how neurons pass signals to one another
Strengthens an existing foundation for beginners in neuroscience
Taught by David Cox, an experienced instructor in neuroscience
Our mission
OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.
Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.
Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.
Affiliate disclosure
We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.
Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.
Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.
© 2016 - 2024 OpenCourser