Module 04: Neurons

Description: This module explores neurons & glial cells as fundamental building blocks of the nervous system. Students will examine neuronal structure including cell membrane, organelles, axons, & dendrites, & understand mechanisms of electrical signaling including resting potential, action potentials, & propagation. Students will also learn about critical roles of glial cells in supporting neural function.

Why This Module is Important: Understanding neurons & neural communication is foundational for psychology & neuroscience, particularly for counselors, clinicians, educators, & researchers who need to understand how brain processes information & how cellular dysfunction manifests in psychological symptoms.

For counselors, this module provides:

• Biological framework for understanding how medications work at the cellular level.
• Insight into how neurological conditions (like multiple sclerosis) impact behavior.
• Understanding of how neurotoxins & substances disrupt neural transmission for substance abuse counseling.
• Knowledge of neural plasticity supporting recovery & therapeutic interventions.

For other psychology professionals, this module supports:

• Research into cellular-level disruptions contributing to psychological disorders.
• Development of targeted interventions based on neural mechanisms.
• Educational approaches recognizing how learning changes neural structures.
• Critical evaluation of neuroscience claims in media & literature.

 Module Learning Objectives: By the end of this module students will be able to…

• MLO1: Identify the structural components of neurons & glial cells, including organelles, membrane structures, & cytoskeletal elements. (CLO1, ULO4)
• MLO2: Analyze the mechanisms of electrical signaling in neurons, including ion channels, pumps, & membrane potential in generating & propagating action potentials. (CLO2, CLO3, ULO4)
• MLO3: Evaluate the significance of glial cells in neural function & assess implications of research challenging traditional views of glia. (CLO2, CLO4, ULO4)

Test Yourself: If you truly “know” this material then you will be able to…

• Describe structure & function of neuronal components (cell body, dendrites, axons, myelin, axon hillock, synaptic vesicles) & explain how structural variations relate to functional differences (unipolar, bipolar, multipolar; sensory, motor, interneurons). (MLO1)
• Explain how resting potential is maintained through ion distribution & membrane permeability, trace action potential events (depolarization, repolarization, hyperpolarization), & compare passive versus saltatory conduction in speed & energy efficiency. (MLO2)
• Evaluate evidence for expanded glial cell roles (astrocytes in synaptic regulation, oligodendrocytes in signal speed, microglia in neuroplasticity) & discuss implications for understanding neural communication & treating neurological conditions. (MLO3)