Anatomy of the Required Discussion Board Assignment

Required Discussion Board posts are in 2 parts within 1 posting. In the first part of your post, define and discuss the topic in academic terms, using citations and referencing, just as you will for any formal academic paper. This is where you demonstrate that you know the concepts. The second part of the required assignment is for application of the concepts. This is where you demonstrate that you know how to use the concepts you have learned.

A. Questions for weekly discussions and conversations (not part of the required Discussion Board assignment)

These questions can serve as the starting point for your discussions during the week. They are “thought starters,” so that you can explore some ideas associated with the Discussion Board and unit topics. Answers are not required and should not be submitted with your required assignment. Answers are not graded.

Does society overmedicate its citizens?

How is diet connected with neurotransmitter production?

B. Required Discussion Board assignment

Based on your reading of the text and supporting materials, it is evident that neurotransmitters play a crucial role in regulating brain function involved with cognition, affect, and behavior.

Part One

Define neurotransmitters, and describe how they do their jobs.

Discuss neurotransmitter excitation and inhibition.

Part Two

Pick 1 of the following topics on which to comment:

Give an example of, and discuss how neurotransmitters play a role in your psychological health. Use examples such as sleeping, eating, memory, thinking, or mood. Pick an example from 1 of these human functions. For example, “I don’t sleep well; it could be because of serotonin imbalance,” or “When I feel good, my dopamine is flowing.”

This company sells dietary supplements to boost neurotransmitter production. This page defines neurotransmitters. Why might it not be desirable to use this as a source for an academic paper on neurotransmitters?