Mind and Brain Learning Contract
Mind and Brain introduces students to the emerging discipline of neuropsychology with special reference to its applicability to counseling and psychotherapy. This study begins with an introduction to the scientific method and some of the basic questions concerning the nature of consciousness. The first part of the study examines fundamental concepts in neurobiology including the structure of the neuron and the functions of the nervous system. It then moves on to an examination of how neurobiological processes interact with psychological dimensions of experience. Particular attention is given to understanding this intersection with special reference to the functioning of the neurobiologically informed therapist.
Specific Learning activities:
- Read Kalat's Biological Psychology 9th Edition, Chapters 1--6. Students should purchase the book from the ESC college bookstore: Bundle number 0495258369. This bundle comes packaged with a CD rom and an access card to the online publisher's resources (including quizzes). Note: If you purchase this book from another source it may not come with access to the publisher's website, which is required for participation in the study and for which there is an extra charge if the book is purchased used. Students must register online with Cengage Learning by going to www.academic.cengage.com/now
- Read Cozolino's The Neuroscience of Psychotherapy: Building and Rebuilding the Human Brain. ISBN: 0393703673 (the last number can also be a 2). This book is available online for about $30 (abebooks.com) or through the college bookstore.
- Submit one question based on the week's reading to the mentor each week.
- Demonstrate competency through one mode of evaluation: quizzes, chapter reflections, summaries, etc.
- Active, informed participation in the study group process.
- Presentation of oral report on an area of this study that is of interest to you. This report must include handouts (of references, websites, other relevant information) for your class colleagues.
- Write a 1 page paper on your reflections about this course: What you enjoyed learning, what you want to learn more about, how it was useful, how it changed your understanding, etc.