BIOLOGY-I

Course Description

The course starts with a brief introduction on evolutionary and environmental adaptations of the human beings. Students are provided with an understanding of the biological bases of behavior. The course includes a short introduction on the importance and methodologies used in the biological sciences and describes the basic characteristics of living organisms, the chemical and physiological basis of vitality, the cell, its organelles and their functions. Students are familiarized with scientific articles on biology. Anatomy and the physiology of the cell is introduced with emphasis on understanding the functions of the nerve cell. The course is specifically dedicated to the human nervous system as well as brain mechanisms.

BIOLOGY-I

Evaluation Tools (Active Term)

Course outcomes

1. 01 Define the molecular, cellular, and tissue-level organization of the central and peripheral nervous system 2) Understand the properties of cells that make up the nervous system including the propagation of electrical signals used for cellular communication 3) Relate the properties of individual cells to their function in organized neural circuits and systems 4) Understand how the interaction of cells and neural circuits leads to higher level activities such as cognition and behavior 5) Generate testable scientific hypotheses and develop research plans to test these hypotheses 6) Evaluate and discuss primary research literature and evaluate the validity of hypotheses generated by others 7)
2. 02 Define the structure and function of neurons and glia cells
3. 03 Analyse how neurons are connected in neuronal circuits that control our behaviour
4. 04 Explain the central nervous system, the autonomous nervous system and the peripheral nervous system including the structure and function of the sensory organs and describe
5. 05 Analyse how the interactions between PNS and CNS
6. 06 Describe some of the functions of the nervous system such as the regulation of , movement, motivation, pain, emotions and memory
7. 07 Describe neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease, addiction, schizophrenia, depression
8. 08 Classify most important transmitters functions

Course Syllabus

Reference Books & Course Materials

1. 01 Kalat, J.W. (2015). Biological Psychology. Wadsworth Publishing
2. 02 Campbell N.A & Reece J.B. (9th Edition). Biology. Publisher: Benjamin Cummings
3. 03 Lecture notes- presentations

Learning Outcomes

No learning outcomes have been defined.

Program Outcomes

1. P01 Demonstrate an understanding of the core subfields of psychology — including but not limited to clinical, developmental, cognitive, social, and biological/neuroscientific psychology — and their interconnections with other scientific disciplines, critically evaluating the value of a multidisciplinary approach to scientific inquiry in psychology.
2. P02 Apply scientific methods, research techniques, measurement and psychometric principles (e.g., reliability, validity, scale development/adaptation), and quantitative/statistical reasoning to investigate psychological phenomena, recognizing methodological strengths, limitations, common reasoning fallacies, and the flaws of pseudoscience.
3. P03 Employ logical, intuitive, and creative thinking to analyze psychological concepts, evaluate theories (including their historical and philosophical development), synthesize information, and solve complex problems related to cognition and behavior.
4. P04 Integrate psychological theories and findings into practical settings (e.g., business, policy, clinical/counseling contexts, and daily life), applying foundational applied skills such as interviewing, observation, and case formulation, drawing meaningful conclusions to inform individual, organizational, and societal practices.
5. P05 Describe key ethical principles in psychological research and practice, critically applying these principles to dilemmas across academic, professional, and everyday contexts.
6. P06 Recognize how individual differences (e.g., beliefs, values, backgrounds) impact behavior and relationships; use psychological knowledge to prevent or resolve intercultural and interpersonal conflicts and promote inclusive, respectful interactions.
7. P07 Exhibit self-regulation and self-awareness, demonstrating a commitment to psychological well-being, effective time management, constructive incorporation of feedback, and ongoing personal and professional development.
8. P08 Collaborate effectively in diverse teams, demonstrating responsibility, bias awareness, conflict resolution skills, and leadership in achieving collective goals.
9. P09 Communicate psychological knowledge clearly and appropriately for academic, professional, and public audiences using inclusive language, both in written and oral formats, and by accurately summarizing and presenting research findings.
10. P10 Use information and communication technologies (including AI and digital media) responsibly and effectively for research, collaboration, and the dissemination of psychological knowledge.
11. P11 Embrace lifelong learning and adaptability in response to evolving psychological knowledge and societal needs, engaging with global perspectives and demonstrating intercultural awareness.

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