Neural Foundations of Learning and Memory

Ever wondered how your brain creates and retains memories, allowing you to learn new skills and recall past events? This course unravels the biological mechanisms that underpin these fundamental cognitive processes. By the end of this course, you will have a solid foundational understanding of the neural underpinnings of learning and memory, connecting microscopic cellular events to macroscopic cognitive functions. What you'll learn: * Understand the fundamental cellular and molecular mechanisms driving learning and memory formation. * Learn about the key brain structures, including the hippocampus, involved in different types of memory. * Explore the concept of synaptic plasticity, such as long-term potentiation (LTP), as the basis for memory storage. * Differentiate between various memory systems, including declarative and non-declarative memory. * Apply your knowledge to basic models of memory consolidation and retrieval. * Recognize the dynamic nature of memory and fundamental principles of memory reconsolidation. This course begins with an introduction to foundational neurobiology, then progresses through cellular and molecular mechanisms, key brain regions, and different memory systems, concluding with an overview of memory dynamics. It is designed for absolute beginners with no prior knowledge of neuroscience or biology required, providing a comprehensive entry point into the neural basis of learning and memory. Start your journey into the intricate world of the brain's memory systems today.