Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

Challenges associated with exposure to extreme environments are becoming more relevant to human function. PHYL3004 will cover the response of the human body during exposure to extreme environments including high and low temperatures, high altitude, space, diving at depth, and the effect of pollutants on physiological function. The unit builds on an understanding of general physiological function and mechanisms that were developed in the Level 2 Physiology units. Key concepts include the sensory input into different body systems, and the application of control theory to the regulatory systems results that result in homeostasis. The response of those systems to internal and external factors that can challenge homeostasis are covered, including regulation by neural and hormonal means, and how the responses of different systems can interact. The unit focuses on oral presentation skills in science including the use of visual aids, seminar preparation, public speaking, and on teamwork skills, the latter developed through laboratory classes and a student-centred conference that includes oral presentations.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) exhibit a sound knowledge of physiological control by feedback and feedforward mechanisms, and the ability to apply this information to multiple organ systems; (2) apply the general principles of sensory reception across different environments; (3) explain the responses of specific physiological systems to both internal and external perturbations and the consequences of these changes on other body systems; (4) record accurate data from experiments using relevant instrumentation and statistical analyse of the data; (5) communicate scientific information (written and oral) and engage in peer review assessment; (6) explain body function in terms of the underlying biological mechanisms; and (7) work as part of a group to achieve successful outcomes in a laboratory.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) seminar presentation; (2) practical assessments; and (3) final theory examination. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Associate Professor Peter Noble and Professor Shane Maloney
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Successful completion of Unit(s) PHYL1001 Physiology - How your body works and
PHYL2002 Physiology of Cells
or PHYL3002 Physiology of Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems
Contact hours
lectures: 2 hours per week
labs: 3 to 6 hours per week including self-paced work and seminars
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.