Motor control 2500-EN-CS-E-04

This course presents students with the opportunity to learn about neural systems responsible for motor functions of the body. Parts of the course loosely follow the outline of David Rosenbaum’s book „Human Motor Control”, whereas topics not covered by that book will be discussed on the basis of original research and review papers. The course will be split into three basic parts: 1) Principles and basic organization of motor control neural systems 2) Movement control 3) Motor control – beyond body movements. 1) Deals with anatomical and neurobiological principles of motor systems organization. 2) Describes basic types of movement that humans can perform, such as reaching and looking. 3) Provides perspective on how does movement control expand to other domains of cognition and how natural body can be surpassed by wiring the brain into machine. Each topic will be discussed on the basis of research in both humans and non-human species, and will combine knowledge of both normal and abnormal brain function (such as the example of optic ataxia helps understanding spatio-motor function of parietal lobes). The focus of the course will be to provide groundwork understanding of motor systems for future researchers and practictioners in the domains of neuropsychology and (human) motor neuroscience.

Learning activities:
Classes will be held on lecture basis, with students free to ask questions or discuss topics as necessary/requested. Text-related homework will be required to complete the course. Practical exercises may be included.