PHY2011

Neuroscience of sensation, brain and movement

(SCI)

Dr Ramesh Rajan

6 points + Three 1-hour lectures and one 3-hour hour practical class or progress review period per week + First semester + Clayton + Prohibitions: PHY2051, BMS1052, ASC2716 and ASC2727

Synopsis: This subject examines, in four themes, the nervous, sensory, brain and muscle systems, which act as the body0s detection, communication, analysis, and action systems. Theme 1 (The world within) explains nerves and intercell communication. Theme 2 (Registering the world) shows how the systems of touch, pain, hearing, vision, taste and smell detect stimuli. Theme 3 (Analysing the world) shows how the brain analyses information. Theme 4 (Action responses) details how the body responds through movement via muscles and limbs. Normal physiology and common dysfunctions of the systems are studied, to allow for a greater understanding of the normal physiology, and an appreciation of dysfunctions.

Assessment: Three multiple-choice tests (45 mins each): 25% + Fortnightly practical report assessment: 20% + Practical written examination (1.5 hours): 25% + Theory written examination (3 hours): 30%