AIMS AND CONTENT

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

Students will acquire foundational knowledge in behavioral physiology and in the main techniques used for behavioral analysis, with applications in experimental models for studying sensory, motor, emotional, social, and cognitive domains, as well as their alterations under pathological conditions.

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Critically analyze animal models and their potential applications;
• Develop decision-making skills regarding the methodologies and techniques currently available for animal experimentation;
• Compare and evaluate the different models studied in class and identify the most appropriate models for specific applications (including preclinical translational research, biotechnology, and neuroscience);
• Confidently use specific scientific terminology;
• Understand and apply current regulations concerning the protection and use of animal models in preclinical research and biotechnology.

TEACHING METHODS

The course is delivered in English. Teaching is carried out through in-person classroom activities, with theoretical lectures covering all topics in the program. Attendance is mandatory for at least 70% of the classes. Lectures are supported by PowerPoint presentations and promote critical discussion in class, encouraging dialogue and deeper understanding of more complex concepts.

Depending on institutional needs or directives (e.g., in emergencies such as weather alerts), teaching may also be conducted remotely via online connections, previously agreed upon by the instructor, students, and the teaching facilities. Remote sessions will be held using Microsoft Teams, the platform provided by the university. In such cases, students will be promptly notified through the messaging system on the course's AulaWeb page.

Students will have access to teaching materials via the AulaWeb platform. Additionally, the instructor is available by appointment for office hours, offering clarifications and further insights based on students’ needs.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

Fundamentals of behavioural physiology, including ethological and physiological characteristics. Behavioural tests for the assessment of sensory, motor, anxiety-related, social, and cognitive domains across different models and their use in biomedical research. Experimental approaches and advanced techniques for the study of behaviour.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

Exam Board

ANDREA AMAROLI (President)

CATERINA MICHETTI (President)

SVEVA BOLLINI (President and Coordinator of Integrated Course)

LESSONS

LESSONS START

The course is offered during the first semester, according to communications from the relevant Study Program office.

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The exam for this course consists of an oral interview with the instructor(s). The questions will cover all parts of the program covered during the lectures. Each instructor will begin the discussion by asking the candidate 2-3 questions on fundamental topics explained in class to assess the student’s knowledge and critical analysis skills regarding the course content.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

The exam is designed to verify that the student has understood the different animal models (both mammalian and non-mammalian) used in experimental research and the techniques required to generate them.
It aims to assess whether the student has correctly learned the main advantages and applications of the presented models, as well as the relevant legislation in the field.

Students’ ability to accurately recall the meaning of specific terms and to relate these terms and concepts will be evaluated through correlation questions.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Registration for the exam is strictly mandatory via the online booking system; students registered in any other way or not registered will not be accepted.
If any issues arise with exam registration on the portal, students must contact the online student services support before the registration deadline.
The topics covered during lectures are presented in the slides available on AulaWeb. Any supplementary material is indicated at the end of the in-person lecture and included in the AulaWeb slides.