Duration
30h Th
Number of credits
Lecturer
Coordinator
Language(s) of instruction
French language
Organisation and examination
Teaching in the second semester
Schedule
Units courses prerequisite and corequisite
Prerequisite or corequisite units are presented within each program
Learning unit contents
This course begins with an introduction to the concept of animal model (typology, validity), followed by an overview of the main behavioral tests used in fundamental research to study learning and memory (particularly spatial recognition memory, object recognition memory or episodic-like memory; A. Ferrara). Some of these tests, true Swiss-army knives for investigating cognitive processes, will be examined in detail in order to show how scientific inferences about unobservable processes can be drawn from observable behavior. The strengths and weaknesses of these functional animal models will be assessed, notably with reference to the ARRIVE guidelines. Other functional animal models, such as the animal model of empathy, may also be discussed (E. Quertemont).
In a second part, the possibilities offered by integrative animal models will be presented in a more specific manner, particularly those related to alcoholism or post-traumatic stress disorder (E. Quertemont), as well as to certain brain pathologies (stroke, Alzheimer's disease, or Parkinson's disease; A. Ferrara). The notions of validity and translational preclinical research will be emphasized. The challenges inherent to the selected integrative animal models will also be discussed in the context of the reproducibility crisis and the ethical issues of animal research (ARRIVE and PREPARE guidelines, and the 3Rs rule).
Learning outcomes of the learning unit
To understand where the interest and contribution of cognitive and behavioural animal models lie (without neglecting their limitations and drawbacks) in psychology, neuroscience and pre-clinical research.
Prerequisite knowledge and skills
Planned learning activities and teaching methods
Active participation in the seminar. Analysis of scientific texts.
Mode of delivery (face to face, distance learning, hybrid learning)
Face-to-face course
Course materials and recommended or required readings
Platform(s) used for course materials:
- eCampus
Further information:
PDF files associated with the oral course available on eCampus; reference articles provided by the teacher related to the in person course.
Exam(s) in session
Any session
- In-person
written exam ( open-ended questions )
Further information:
Closed-book exam.
Work placement(s)
Organisational remarks and main changes to the course
See eCampus for further information.
Contacts
a.ferrara@uliege.be (tél.: +32 4 366 22 32).
equertemont@uliege.be (tél : +32 4 366 21 05).