Units

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Sample subject outline - Semester 2 2013

Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.

Rationale

Human Movement students require a firm grounding in the principles of human anatomy and physiology. Following an introduction to the structure and function of the cell and the functional organisation of tissues, each of the major systems that constitute the human body are examined by the integrated study of their anatomy and physiology. The unit provides a base for second level units HMB273 (Exercise Physiology) and HMB274 (Functional Anatomy).

Aims

The aim of this unit is to provide you with a basic understanding of both the structure and function of the major organ systems of the human body as these relate to health and disease.

Objectives

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

1. Understand the fundamental principles of human physiology.

2. Distinguish between the types of control exerted by the endocrine and nervous systems.

3. Know the basic electrical and molecular events associated with nerve cell communication and muscle contraction.

4. Distinguish between the various branches of the peripheral nervous system and their respective functions.

5. Know the basic functions of the cardiovascular, respiratory, urinary and digestive systems.

Content

The content of this unit includes:
The cell, organelles, membrane transport, pumps and channels, intracellular signalling.
Homeostasis, endocrine, neural and humoral controls.
Membrane potential, action potential.
Sensory organs, balance, vision and hearing.
Excitation and contraction of muscle cells.
Motor units, properties of fast and slow twitch units, recruitment.
Endocrine system, the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, mechanisms of hormone action.
Nervous communication, neurotransmitters, nerve inhibition and reflexes.
Respiratory system, ventilation and its control, gas exchange and gas transport.
Cardiovascular system 1, the cardiac cycle, cardiac conduction, the FCG.
Cardiovascular system 2, cardiac output, blood pressure, capillary function.
Gastrointestinal system, mechanical and chemical digestion, absorption.
Energy systems, overview of energy production from fat, carbohydrate and protein.
Urinary system, glomerular and tubular function, regulation of fluid composition.

Approaches to Teaching and Learning

Lecture (2 hours per week) is supplemented by practical sessions (2 hours per week). Participation in practicals is an essential component of the course. A doctor's certificate will be needed if a practical session is missed. These practicals include computer simulations, practical activities and practical experiments, designed to give you a greater awareness of the direct affects on the body of physiological manipulations. The unit Blackboard site provides material that allows you to undertake self-directed learning through accessing information and weekly formative tests. Completion of reports within the laboratory manual based on the practical content will provide you with the opportunity to analyse basic physiological measurements obtained during the prac classes.

Assessment

Students will receive immediate formative and summative feedback on practical test results via the unit Blackboard site

Assessment name: Examination (Theory)
Description: Progress theory exam comprised of 90 multiple-choice questions; formative and summative.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2, 3, and 4
Weight: 30%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Mid Semester

Assessment name: Examination (Theory)
Description: Final theory exam comprised of 90 multiple-choice questions; summative.
Relates to objectives: 1, 4 and 5
Weight: 30%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: End of Semester

Assessment name: Practical Reports
Description: Practical reports based on the practical content for each week.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 with differential emphasis depending on the specific topic.
Weight: 40%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Weekly

Academic Honesty

QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.

A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.

Resource materials

Widmaier, Raff and Strang (2008). Vander's Human Physiology - The Mechanisms of Body Function, 11th Edition, McGraw Hill Publishers.

LSB231 Physiology 2012 Practical Class Manual. (Available via the QUT book stores)

You will have access to additional material through the unit Blackboard site.

Risk assessment statement

This unit includes a laboratory component. In order that you become proficient in necessary practical skills, you will be trained in the handling of equipment, materials and specimens normally associated with this discipline. You will be provided with the latest edition of a comprehensive safety booklet pertinent to life sciences laboratories and specifically to this unit, and you will be required to adhere to the safety procedures detailed in it. You are referred to the university's health and safety web site http://www.hrd.qut.edu.au/healthsafety/index.jsp for further information.

If you have an underlying health condition you are encouraged to consult the lecturer in charge of the unit, as you may be required to take additional precautions on occasions.

Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.

Last modified: 08-Oct-2012