536-304 Advanced Experimental Physiology

Physiology 536-301 or 536-302 or 536-303 or 536-308.

This subject provides practical experience in experimental physiology within a 'work-experience' research environment. Emphasis is given to communication (oral and written) and to work as a team in interactive small group research. The assignments will concentrate on developing skills associated with scientific writing and critical appreciation of the literature. In the research component, students will learn group management skills including timetabling and negotiation, use group discussion/debate and reason to explore experimental approaches, learn about scientific conduct, working cooperatively in small groups with a member of staff actively investigating a specific physiological problem. Students will be expected to use their training in scientific writing undertaken in physiology 536-301, 536-302, 536-303 or 536-308 as a basis for writing their reports. The range of topics offered varies from year to year, and includes cardiac physiology, brain function, foetal physiology, vascular function and skeletal muscle physiology.

Assessment is dependent on the nature of the individual project undertaken and is comprised of the following: a scientific writing assignment or a laboratory report totalling up to 2500 words (ranging from 60% to 100% of the subject's total assessment). Additional assessment may involve laboratory performance during the semester (from 10% to 40%); and/or a seminar presentation/discussion of process and results (from 5% to 25%). The exact assessment details including relative component weightings and the timing of assessment components will be advised after a student selects an area of investigation.