513-203 Human Movement Development

Coordinator

Semester

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Subject Description

On completion of this subject, students will have been introduced to the theory and process of movement development through the lifespan. By looking at examples of movement dysfunction (and the causes and effects) this subject forms a basis for areas of physiotherapy practice such as paediatrics, occupational health, women's health and geriatrics. Lectures will provide knowledge of the process of development of movement or motor behaviour from conception to old age with attention given to movement disorders and its causes. Stages are prenatal, infant, childhood, adolescence, adulthood and old age. Topics include neurodevelopment, sensorimotor development, perceptual motor development, dynamic systems theory and developmental biomechanics. Opportunity is given for students to develop interactive skills with well people of different ages and ability including babies and children. Observation, subjective and objective measurement of children and their motor development forms part of student assessment. A presentation and report of accident statistics and outcomes through the lifespan, the contribution of stage of motor development to causes, and prevention strategy completes the course.

Assessment

Assignments (up to 2000 words) (70%) and seminar presentation and report (up to 600 words) (30%).

Prescribed Texts

• Sheridan M D 1990, Birth to 5 Years. Acer.