What This Document Is
This is a detailed syllabus for PSYC 555, an introductory course on Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) offered at the University of Southern California. It outlines the course structure, expectations, and a week-by-week schedule of topics covered throughout the Spring 2009 semester. It serves as a foundational guide for students new to the field of neuroimaging.
Why This Document Matters
This syllabus is essential for anyone considering enrolling in or currently enrolled in an introductory fMRI course. It provides a clear understanding of the course’s scope, required materials, and assessment methods. Prospective students can use it to determine if the course aligns with their academic interests and goals. Current students will benefit from having a readily available reference for important dates, grading policies, and the overall flow of the semester. It’s particularly useful for planning study schedules and understanding project requirements.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This syllabus provides an overview of the course but does *not* contain the actual lecture materials, lab instructions, or detailed explanations of fMRI principles. It doesn’t include specific exam questions, homework assignments, or the content of group projects. It’s a roadmap, not the territory itself – access to the full course materials is required for in-depth learning. The syllabus represents the instructor’s *intentions* for the course, and some details may be subject to change.
What This Document Provides
* A comprehensive list of course logistics, including instructor contact information and office hours.
* A clear breakdown of course requirements and their associated weights towards the final grade.
* A tentative schedule of lecture and lab topics, spanning the entire semester.
* Information regarding required textbooks and necessary safety training.
* An overview of planned hands-on experience with fMRI equipment (Siemens 3T Trio system).
* Mentions of software used in the course (BrainVoyager) and guest lecturers.