1. Fundamentals of Neuroscience,
Part 1: The Electrical Properties of the Neuron
Learn how electricity makes the neurons in your brain tick.
About this course
Fundamentals of Neuroscience is a three-course series that explores the structure and function of
the nervous system—from the inner workings of a single nerve cell to the staggering complexity of
the brain and the social interactions they enable.
In this first course, you’ll learn how individual neurons use electricity to transmit information. You'll
build a neuron, piece by piece, using interactive simulations, then travel around Harvard's campus,
where you will see the inner workings of a lab and learn how to conduct DIY neuroscience experiments
on your own.
Join us as we study the electrical properties in individual neurons, building a foundation for
understanding the function of the entire nervous system.
What you will learn
– Fundamentals of bioelectricity
– The importance of resting potential
– The properties of passive membranes
– Action potentials, their currents, and their role in the nervous system
– How you can do neuroscience in your home
2. Fundamentals of Neuroscience,
Part 2: Neurons and Networks
Discover how neurons work together to create complex networks inside the brain.
About this course
Neurons in isolation are fascinating and complicated, but the real magic of neuroscience happens in
the interaction between neurons. In this course, we examine how neurons pass signals to one
another and how complex dynamics can result from just a few neurons arranged in relatively simple circuits.
Continue your journey through our Fundamentals of Neuroscience series with animations that
explore the richness and complexity of the brain, documentaries about working labs around Cambridge.
Join us as we use virtual labs that simulate neuron circuitry as we investigate the collective behavior
of neurons and learn how the brain modulates the signals in those networks.