536-211 Physiology:Control of Body Function

Not available for students enrolled in BBiomedSc.

This subject builds upon the physiological principles and systems introduced in 536-201 Principles of Physiology. The combination of 536-211, 536-201 Principles of Physiology, and the practical subject 536-222 Experimental Physiology forms the minimum requirement for selection into third-year physiology (see 300-level subjects). 536-233 Research-based & Integrative Physiology is also desirable for good prepartion for 300-level physiology.

This subject contains computer-aided learning (CAL) sessions. Students must enroll into a CAL session during the week prior to semester. Enrolment can be carried out via the Physiology web page <http://www.physiology.unimelb.edu.au> or by using the allocated computers located in the Physiology Teaching Laboratory, Room N306 (Medical Building, Level 3, North Wing) between 10.00am and 4.00pm during that week. As every session has a strictly limited number of places, early enrolment is advisable. If students cannot personally enroll during the allocated time, they must make arrangements for someone else to enroll for them.

Physiology 536-201.

Physiology is an integrative study of the control of normal body function. Following completion of this subject students should be able to build on the basic knowledge gained in first semester's 536-201 Principles of Physiology by comprehending how the integrated endocrine, paracrine and autocrine and neuronal processes within the body ultimately controls its function. Students should gain this knowledge through an in-depth consideration of the various processes that together sustain and modulate body function including control of the central nervous, respiratory, renal, reproductive, digestive, muscular and cardiovascular systems. Students should also gain an understanding into the basic structure and function of the brain and its regulatory processes and in particular its interactions with body systems in helping maintain homeostasis. Included will be an introduction to the physiology of vision, hearing and taste and consideration of the processes that control balance, posture and movement. In the computer-aided learning sessions associated with this course, students will work in groups on a variety of tasks which should help develop and enhance skills related to team work, analytical reading and the ability to communicate information both concisely and unambiguously (written and verbal).

Tasks related to computer-aided learning activities during the semester (10%); a 45-minute written examination held mid-semester (15%); a 2-hour written examination in the examination period (75%). The written examination may draw upon materials taught in 536-201.