Microcomputer Resources

A number of software programs may be useful as demonstrations in a physiological psychology course or may form the basis for a laboratory exercise. Another unique aspect of this Instructor's Manual is the inclusion of references for software that can be used to support a physiological psychology course. For example, software programs are available that provide a simulation of the electrical activity of the neuron. These programs allow the user to simulate the electrical activity of single neurons or of neuron assemblies. Among these are:
  • Animations Disk to Accompany Carlson. The animations on this disk simulate neural communication, the action potential, the synapse, post-synaptic potentials, and psychopharmacology. Contact an Allyn and Bacon sales representative for details about this disk.

  • Neurosim II: This PC software package provides a set of neural simulations including the cable properties of a neuron, calculations of the resting membrane potential using the Goldman equation, the Hodgkin-Huxley model of neuron properties, and a simulation of the postsynaptic response to various transmitters including ACh, GABA, and 5-HT. Neurosim II is available from BIOSOFT (01223 368622; Email: ab47@cityscape.co.uk).

  • Electrophysiology of the Neuron: This software program (PC or MAC formats) provides a simulation of the effects of manipulating electrophysiological parameters on resting potentials, action potentials, and postsynaptic potentials. The program is available from Oxford University Press (001 212 7266069). A shareware version is available from: http://tonto.stanford.edu/~john/eotn.html

A comprehensive listing of software relevant for a physiological psychology course can be found at the following Web sites:

Intro | Course Description | Sample Syllabus | Syllabi on the Web | Lecture Issues | Electronic Classroom Presentations | Audiovisual Resources | Laboratory/Demonstration Resources | Microcomputer Resources | Resources from the Internet | References