655-221 Human Visual Functions

Credit Points

HECS Band

Coordinator

Prerequisites

A first year mathematics is recommended, but not a prerequisite

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

This subject gives a detailed account of the capabilities of the human visual system and an introduction to theories of visual function. Experience is gained in the laboratory classes in measuring visual functions and in using classical visual psychophysical methodology. The topics covered are the specification of the visual stimulus, the light sense including spectral luminous efficiency, light and dark adaptation and increment thresholds; temporal resolution and critical fusion frequency; the form sense including visual acuity and the contrast sensitivity function, the colour sense and theories of colour vision, the visual space sense, including binocular correspondence, the horopter, fusion and stereopsis.

Assessment

A 3-hour written examination at the end of the semester (85%). Practical work (15%). A pass must be obtained for the practical work.

Prescribed Texts

• W M Hart (ed), Adler's Physiology of the Eye, Clinical Applications. 9th ed., Mosby, 1992.
• S H Schwartz, Visual Perception: A Clinical Orientation. 2nd ed., Appleton and Lange, 1994.