Leader: Mr Peter Freeman (Gippsland, Mildura), Dr Ralph Arwas (Peninsula)

Offered

Gippsland Second semester 2008 (Day)
Mildura Second semester 2008 (Day)
Peninsula Second semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

The major themes of study are nervous and endocrine control and regulation of body functions, maintenance systems of the body, and reproduction and early development. The unit develops further the critical evaluation of evidence and an awareness of the changing nature of knowledge in the health sciences. Topics include the structure and functions of the nervous system; the integrative functions of the nervous system and the endocrine system; the structure and function of the urinary system; the structure and function of the digestive system; the structure and function of the reproductive system; and the major changes in embryonic development in early pregnancy.

Objectives

On completion of this unit, students should be able to:

1. explain how electrochemical signals are conducted within the nervous system;

2. relate the structure of the major anatomical divisions of the nervous system to the sensory, integrative, and responsive functions of nervous tissues;

3. relate the structure of the endocrine system to the integration of body functions;

4. relate the structure of the urinary system to excretory functions and fluid balance;

5. relate the structure of the digestive system to digestive, absorptive, and metabolic functions;

6. relate the structure of the reproductive system to the function of gametogenesis and fertilisation;

7. describe the major changes in embryonic development in early pregnancy;

8. observe, measure and present clinical data and discuss the validity of the data; and

9. apply theoretical concepts to simulated clinical scenarios to develop a framework for the scientific understanding of clinical practice.

Assessment

On-line tests (5): 10%
Laboratory work (3): 30%
Examination (2 hours): 60%

Prerequisites

HSC1301

Prohibitions

NUR1302