Key facts
UNE unit code: NEUR337
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Trimester 3 - Online
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information

This unit provides you with knowledge and skills to understand and evaluate the neurobiological and behavioural bases of human behaviour, enabling you to implement evidence-based procedures to change that behaviour.
Underpinned by a biological perspective, you will examine brain functions, environmental influences upon those functions, and the role of the autonomic nervous system in monitoring and adjusting behaviour.
The unit also offers opportunities to familiarise yourself with current procedures for measuring behaviour and evaluating changes to behaviour, as you apply research-based models for intervention to simulated scenarios and presenting issues.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | Online |
| Trimester 3 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)

Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate a knowledge of the neurobiological basis of behaviour;
- demonstrate a knowledge of how physiology interacts with the environment to maintain homeostasis;
- apply an evidence-based approach to understanding the environmental influences upon behaviour;
- apply a model of behaviour change that is research-based; and
- measure behaviour and calculate change indices.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Live Video Presentation - Assurance Task | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Students will deliver a 10-minute video explaining the neurobiological basis of a target behaviour. This will be followed by a minimum 10 minutes of answering questions. The presentation will not receive a grade.
It is mandatory to achieve a minimum of 50% to pass this assessment. Students must pass this assessment to be eligible to pass the unit. |
| Oral Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Discussion of hypothetical cases studies. No. Words: 2000 It is mandatory to achieve a minimum of 50% to pass this assessment. Students must pass this assessment to be eligible to pass the unit. |
| Self-Directed Behaviour Change Project | Yes | 40% | All offerings | Written report on measurement of specific behaviour, A-B-C data analysis, and effects arising from application of individualized intervention. No. Words: 2500 It is mandatory to complete and submit this assessment in order to pass the unit. |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Self-Directed Behaviour: Self-Modification for Personal Adjustment
ISBN: 9781285077093
Watson, D.L. and Tharp, R.G., Cengage Learning 10th ed. 2013
Text refers to: All offerings
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