PHY2011 - Neuroscience of communication, sensory and control systems - 2018

This unit studies how the cells in our body communicate to each other, using fast and slow response systems, and how our bodies use these systems to gain information about the world through our senses and then respond using the muscle systems of our limbs and internal organs and the hormone systems. This material is taught through four successive themes that progressively build up the discipline knowledge and broader organisation, communication and management skills of science. Themes 1 and 2 (Foundations) explain cell structure and nerve organisation and function. Theme 3 (Communication systems) develops that knowledge base to study fast and slow inter-cell communication systems. Theme 4 (Sensory systems) shows how the systems of touch, pain, hearing, vision, taste and smell detect the world and how the brain analyses that information. Theme 5 (Control and response systems) details how the body responds through movement of limbs and the action of internal organs, and hormone systems. 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.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Identify the structures of and explain the functions of the detection, communication, analysis and action systems in the body: viz., the nervous system, sensory systems, skeletal and smooth muscle systems, and endocrine systems;
2. Develop organisational, communication and management skills in the study and application of the biomedical sciences;
3. Demonstrate physiology laboratory skills in the collection, presentation, analysis and interpretation of data, including the practicalities and limitations of, and variablility inherent in, working with biological tissue;
4. Work in teams in practical classes and in assessment tasks.

In semester MCQ tests: 35%

In semester practical class and tutorial assessments: 30%

In semester web problem class assessments: 5%

In semester team poster: 15%

Examination (1.5 hours): 15%

This unit is subject to the Hurdle and Threshold Standards policiesHurdle and Threshold Standards policies (http://www.med.monash.edu.au/policies/assessment-policy-2017.html) of the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences.

Three 1-hour lectures and one 3-hour practical class, tutorial or workshop per week

See also Unit timetable information

Pharmacology

Physiology