Introduction

Introduction to Neurobiology is aimed at undergraduate students new to the field of neurobiology. The first edition specifically targets students enrolled in BI360 Neurobiology at the University of Oregon and primarily contains topics covered in that course. The textbook is modified from a combination of from two existing open texbtooks: Foundations of Neuroscience by Casey Henley, and Introduction to Neuroscience by Valerie Hedges. An introduction to Bioelectricity has been added. Figures and text have been added, and edited or modified as needed. Citations are being added as appropriate.

As established by Casey Henley, original text follows principles of Universal Design for Learning: multiple means of representation will be provided for students to engage with the content. Clear, accessible text will be divided into short, easily digestible chapters that focus on one concept. Numerous images and animations will be paired with the text, and a captioned video version of the text is shared for each chapter. The text is written with the undergraduate student that is new to neuroscience in mind. Neuroscience terminology will be introduced in an easy-to-understand manner, and supporting content will be clear and concise to minimize cognitive load not associated with understanding new material.

Each chapter will end with an interactive quiz for student self-evaluation of the content. All quiz answers (i.e. both correct and incorrect) will provide feedback, so students can self-check their understanding at the end of each concept and receive immediate feedback about their learning.

Find errors or have suggestions? Email avinash at uoregon dot edu.

• Avinash D Singh Bala, PhD
• Biology & Neuroscience, University of Oregon