Networks and Circuits

Module code: NT1003

This module will bring together the topics of neuroanatomy and electrical circuits, allowing you to compare biological and electronic control systems.

We will start by looking at neuroanatomy, investigating the cell types present in the peripheral and central nervous system and how these are organised to produce an integrated nervous system. You will learn how the brain forms during development and the major structures that are present in the adult central nervous system.

In the second section of this module we will move onto the basic principles of electric circuits and simple fibre optic systems. By combining these topics with your knowledge of the peripheral and central nervous system, we will explore how an artificial limb might be constructed that interfaces directly to an individual’s nervous system.

Topics covered

• Neuroanatomy
• Nerve conduction
• Motor disorders
• Electrostatics
• Capacitance and resistance
• Reflection and refraction of light