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
This unit provides an overview of fetal and early life origins of health disorders such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity in later life. This emerging field of research is revolutionising our view of the causes of some of the most common and globally important diseases.
The unit covers a range of issues arising from current understanding of the causal pathways linking factors which adversely affect the development and maturation of organ systems with increased risk of poor health outcomes in childhood/adulthood. Topics covered include genetics, epigenetics and adaptation; use and limitations of human and experimental models; external factors which may adversely affect normal fetal growth and development (e.g. glucocorticoid exposure, suboptimal nutrition); immunological development prior to and after birth and its influence on predisposition to immunological disorders (e.g. asthma/allergy and infection); and the development of neuronal pathways potentially leading to suboptimal cognitive development and mental health disorders expressed in adolescence and early adulthood.
Students gain an understanding of the importance of early life development on the burden of disease and poor health on both the individual and society in general. The relevance to indigenous and global health is an important consideration, as is the potential for improving health outcomes by addressing key factors which may adversely affect aspects of fetal and early childhood growth and development. Current and future research priorities in this area are also covered by researchers active in these areas.
- Credit
- 6 points
- Details for undergraduate courses
- Level 3 elective
- Outcomes
Students are able to (1) describe the developmental issues impacting on health and disease outcomes in later life, including prenatal, natal and postnatal environmental factors; (2) explain causal pathways as a theoretical model for exploring the impact of early life environment on future health and disease; (3) demonstrate knowledge of the anatomical and physiological basis influencing the development of organ systems in early life; (4) discuss the importance to society of reducing the burden of poor health and disease at a local and global level, with particular emphasis on vulnerable groups such as indigenous communities; and (5) communicate current research knowledge and identify future priorities in this field.
- Assessment
This comprises four assignments based on practical classes and guided reading (10 per cent each) and a three-hour written examination (60 per cent).
Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.
- Unit rules
- 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.
- Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
- 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.
Face to face
Predominantly face-to-face. On campus attendance required to complete this unit. May have accompanying resources online.
Online flexible
100% Online Unit. NO campus face-to-face attendance is required to complete this unit. All study requirements are online only. Unit is asynchronous delivery, with NO requirement for students to participate online at specific times.
Online timetabled
100% Online Unit. NO campus face-to-face attendance is required to complete this unit. All study requirements are online only. Unit includes some synchronous components, with a requirement for students to participate online at specific times.
Online Restricted
Not available for self-enrolment. Students access this mode by contacting their student office through AskUWA. 100% Online Unit.
NO campus face-to-face attendance. All study and assessment requirements are online only. Unit includes some timetabled activities, with a requirement for students to participate online at specific times. In exceptional cases (noted in the Handbook) students may be required to participate in face-to-face laboratory classes when a return to UWA’s Crawley campus becomes possible in order to be awarded a final grade.
External
No attendance or regular contact is required, and all study requirements are completed either via correspondence and/or online submission.
Off-campus
Regular attendance is not required, but student attends the institution face to face on an agreed schedule for purposes of supervision and/or instruction.
Multi-mode
Multiple modes of delivery. Unit includes a mix of online and on-campus study requirements. On campus attendance for some activities is required to complete this unit.