655-320 Physiological Optics

Coordinator

Prerequisites

Physiological Optics 655-220; Physiology 536-206; Ocular Anatomy 516-203; Structure and Function of the Brain 516-208.

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

This subject provides students with a thorough understanding of the processing of visual information by the visual pathways and visual cortex and the theoretical models that explain visual function. The subject is presented in a context designed to develop students' skills in reading, analysing and debating scientific papers in the vision sciences. The seminars are intended to introduce students to contemporary debate on current issues in visual science. Students are required to read designated papers and to lead discussion in the seminars. The topics studied include the neuro-anatomy of the visual pathways, neurotransmitters and synaptic circuits, regulation of visual sensitivity, parallel processing, retinal and cortical electro-physiological responses, post-natal visual development, perception of brightness, darkness and motion.

Assessment

A 2-hour end-of-semester written examination; participation in seminars (15%).

Prescribed Texts

• Nicholls J G, Martin A R and Wallace B G, From Neuron to Brain. 3rd ed, Sinauer Associates Inc, Sunderland, MA, 1992.
• Spillman L and Werner S S, Visual Perception. The Neurophysiological Foundations 1990 Academic Press.