Overview of the Neuroanatomy

The module aims to give you a solid grounding in the gross anatomical structure and function of the central and peripheral (somatic and autonomic) nervous systems.  The module also aims to develop your teaching skills in a number of different environments.

A fundamental understanding orf anatomical terminology should already have been mastered if this is not your first module.

The general aims of this module are to:

  • deepen understanding of topographical anatomy of the central and peripheral nervous system
  • understand relevant clinical, functional and radiological anatomy of the central nervous system
  • improve and consolidate skills in teaching, learning and communication with students
  • become competent in preparing teaching and learning materials and assessment processes
  • develop key study skills

Topics covered in this module include:

  • Introduction and basic terminology
  • Coverings of the brain and spinal cord
  • Spinal cord
  • Brainstem and cerebellum
  • Forebrain
  • Major functional pathways
  • Clinical examination
  • Correlation of sections of CNS with in vivo imaging the CNS
  • Autonomic nervous system

In addition, upon completion of this module you should be able to:

  1. Deliver and evaluate informative and engaging learning sessions and presentations on neuroanatomy;
  2. Apply teaching skills to construct interactive tutorials and practical sessions;
  3. Develop and critically analyze course materials and learning aids;
  4. Design learning strategies including defining learning outcomes, core vs. non-core elements etc.;
  5. Develop and appraise formative and summative assessment strategies.

ASSESSMENT

The Module will be assessed as follows:

Distance learning component

The module will be assessed by coursework at teh trainee's institution and by the reflective portfolio, submitted monthly to teh ATP assessor. Coursework will include teaching and assessment assignments (e.g. devising examinations and criteria for marking essays), dissection assignments, and written reports from the trainee's mentor indicating satisfactory completion of the distance learning element of the module. Satisfactory completion is also required of teh reflective learning portfolio in order to attend the residential school. An electronic copy of the portfolio, including dissection photographs, is brought to teh residential summer school for evaluation.

Residential summer school

The residential school will include continuous assessment through contribution to the workshops and formative knowledge testing, an assessed teaching session to evaluate the learnt teaching skills, and practical 'spot' tests with written and oral examination  of knowledge and understanding of neuroanatomy.

Outcome of module

The module will be graded as fail, pass or distinction, leading to a Module Certificate (single module) or Program Certificate (if all four modules are completed). The grade of the Programme Certificate will be calculated in proportion to the module weighting [see General Handbook].

File: Overview of Neuroanatomy – ATP TW Amended 22.06.15