Neuroscience (Grades 9-12)
June 8-12Ìý(Online registration closes May 29. Call 303-492-7188 to register after this date.)
9:30am-3pm
July 6-10Ìý(Online registration closes June 26. Call 303-492-7188 to register after this date.)
9:30am-3pm
$650
Location:ÌýJennie Smoly Caruthers Biotechnology Building
Our understanding of the brain has increased rapidly over the past few decades, but there are so many mysteries remaining in neuroscience. This course provides an introduction to the intersection of anatomy, physiology, genetics, development, and behavior, that is neuroscience. We will map out the key structures and functions of the brain and nervous system and investigate major topics such as sensory systems, learning, memory, behavior, and brain plasticity during development. We'll complete hands-on activities, experiments, laboratory tours, and guest presentations to learn how scientists conduct resaerch on the brain. By engaging in mini-experiments on topics like memory, sensory processing, and cognitive load we may gain some novel insights ourselves!
Learning Objectives:Ìý
- Explain the anatomy of the nervous system and neurotransmitters, including cell types in the nervous system and their function.
- Simulate action potential dusing electrophysiology equipment.
- Describe how genetics contributes to brain function and behavior.
- Apply methods for genetic research by performing a DNA extraction.
- Evaluate the genetics of addiction by applying MSG, nicotine and caffeine to cockroaches in controlled experiments.
- Describe gross neuroanatomy and circuitry, by performing sheep brain dissection.
- Explain the biology of sensation and perception by performing an eyeball dissection.
- Describe the neurobiology of learning and memory, and neurodegeneration.
Special note for this class: One of the class days will include a field trip to ¶¶Òõ´«Ã½ÔÚÏß's WILD Research Center (date to be determined). Drop-off and pick-up on the day of the field trip will take place at WILD Research Center.Ìý
What to Bring:ÌýWhile at Science Discovery, participants are expected to store their personal belongings in their backpack. Space is limited so please limit the number of personal items brought from home. All items should be labeled with the participant’s first and last name in case an item is misplaced.ÌýPlease send your child with the following each day:
- A backpack (sized to fit your child) for carrying personal items and any camp materials they will be bringing home
- Filled water bottle(s)
- 1-2 snacks (or more), depending on the child's needs
- A sack lunch that does not require refrigeration
- Closed-toed shoes
- A hair tie to hold back lengthy hair, if applicable
- All camps spend a portion of each day outside. Please send your child with clothing appropriate for the daily forecasted weather (jacket, sweatshirt,Ìýrain poncho, etc.)
- Optional: A mask or any additional Personal Protective Equipment the child wishes to utilize
​Grade Policy:ÌýCU Science Discovery serves students in grades K-12. Careful consideration is used to determine grade levels for all camps and classes. To provide the highest quality experience for all participants, it is necessary to adhere to the specified grade range for all camps and classes.
Cancellation and Transfer Policy:ÌýScience Discovery has designed its cancellation policy to minimize the number of camp and classÌýspots that are unused due to last-minute cancellations. Cancellations made more than 30 days prior to the start of the camp/class will incur a $35 administrative fee. NoÌýrefunds will be given for cancellations made within 30 days of the start of the camp/class. In the event that a camp/classÌýis cancelled by Science Discovery, registrants will receive a full refund.ÌýTransfer requests made up to 30 days prior to the start of a camp/class will incur a $15ÌýadministrativeÌýfee. Transfer requests made within 30Ìýdays of the start of a camp/class will incur a $35 administrative fee.