TRM2001 · Upgrade your brain: Enhancing brainpower through science and practice

Overview

Your brain is your most powerful asset - it’s time to unlock its potential. Designed for students from all backgrounds with an interest in how the brain works, this dynamic and interactive unit will delve into the fascinating world of brain structure, function, and health. With a strong focus on practical, science-backed strategies, you’ll discover how to enhance your brain’s performance, improve memory, and boost overall mental well-being. You’ll explore how the brain is built, how it adapts and grows, and how it processes complex experiences like music, art, and emotions. You’ll also tackle critical topics such as aging and brain health, and learn what happens in conditions like dementia, addiction, and depression. Modern technology is also reshaping the way we think, focus, and remember. How do smartphones, social media, and artificial intelligence influence our attention, memory, and decision-making? This unit will examine the neuroscience behind these digital-age challenges and provide strategies to harness their benefits. Beyond theory, this unit will incorporate engaging activities including memory challenges, problem-solving exercises, mindfulness techniques, and insights into how diet and other factors can influence brain function. By the end of this unit, you’ll understand how the brain works and have the tools to optimise your own mental performance and maintain a healthy brain in an ever-evolving world.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Discuss how our brain experiences and makes sense of the world around us.
2. Articulate how, and investigate whether common daily factors, such as exercise, diet and other interventions can influence brain power.
3. Outline how changes in brain performance could be measured (or inferred) and monitored.
4. Develop strategies to maintain optimum brain performance, and identify barriers for implementing these strategies.

Workload

This unit will be delivered over 5 weeks, 4 days per week with a weekly workload of 28.8 hours per week. Workload includes 16 hours of teacher-directed study (workshops / seminars) and 12.8 hours of self-directed study. Total for 5 week period = 144 hours

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.