Single neuron studies of the human brain 2500-EN-CS-EM-04
Some patients with drug-resistant epilepsy have electrodes implanted in the brain to monitor their condition. This clinical setting provides a rare opportunity to record the activity of individual neurons while people engage in cognitive tasks.
The course begins with an introduction to the clinical, ethical, and physiological foundations of this approach. It then covers the main steps of data analysis, followed by a discussion of recent scientific and technological advances in the field.
In addition to active participation in seminars, students will complete individual projects focused on data analysis and/or study design.
Learning activities:
This course will be organized into two online sessions that include in-class presentations, group discussions, and project work.
Learning outcomes
K_W03: Understand the strengths and limitations of human single-neuron studies in comparison with other neuroscientific methods.
K_W06: Understand the ethical considerations of this type of research and the technological advances stemming from invasive neural recordings.
K_U01: Be able to search for, select, and critically analyze scientific literature from different areas of cognitive neuroscience.
K_U06: Be able to process neurophysiological data using selected signal-processing techniques.
Assessment criteria
a) Components of the final grade and their weights
i) Short exam 50% (day 2)
ii) group project 50% (day 2)
b) Grading scale
> 50%: 3
> 60%: 3+
> 70%: 4
> 80%: 4+
> 90%: 5
> 95%: 5!
c) Requirements for retaking the assessment – not applicable
d) Exams in the exam session – not applicable
Attendance rules:
Due to the course format, unexcused absences are not allowed. In justified cases, students may complete the course by submitting additional assignments.
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: