This course integrates all basic science disciplines in one system-based course to discuss neuroscience-related topics. Each of the basic science departments is incorporated into an integrated body of knowledge covering neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, neurological correlation, neuropharmacology, neuropathology, microbiology, and human behavior. Also, Clinical implications for these information will be addressed by specialists in the clinical departments including Neurology, neurosurgery, radiology, and Orthopedic. These subjects will be addressed by Anatomists, Physiologists, Pathologists, Pharmacologists, Microbiologists, and Clinicians. Goals of this course will be achieved via lectures, relevant laboratory sessions, seminars or small group discussions, and self-directed learning methods.
More specifically, central nervous system (CNS)-related topics will be covered at first to provide basic knowledge and understanding of the structure, function of the nervous system, biochemical basis of human behavior, as well as the pathological basis of neurological and mental disorders in brain and spinal cord. Fundamental principles of basic medical sciences and human behavior will be applied to pathological situations to distinguish the clinical basis for central nervous system disorders. Afterward, all parts of the peripheral nervous system is tackled starting from the origin in the central nervous system down to the target organs. This will include cranial nerves and spinal plexuses with their branches.
During the course and whenever relevant the students are exposed to clinical problems to emphasize the explanations of symptoms, signs, investigations and forms of treatments. Practical sessions are planned to be stations around tables to give students the opportunity to expose their knowledge for discussion and confirm concepts learned in lectures. Small group discussions of clinical cases are planned at the end of the course were students are divided into small groups and with the help of an instructor they analyze and discuss the problem.