James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2003

MD2005:03

Neuroscience

Townsville HECS Band 3

13 hours lectures, 39 hours guided learning sessions, 13 hours synthesising sessions. Full year.

Available to level 2 students enrolled in the MBBS program.

Staff: Dr A-M Babey.

This subject offers a comprehensive approach to the study of the nervous system integrating the closely related aspects of neuroscience and pharmacology. It aims to provide a sound scientific basis for the understanding of disorders of the nervous system using a variety of clinically based example cases. A broad spectrum of approaches to nervous system function will be used beginning with basic cellular neurobiology and progressing to neurological and behavioural views of the whole person.

Learning Objectives:

  1. knowledge of normal and abnormal structure and function relevant to the nervous system;
  2. identify treatment strategies associated with the common abnormalities of nervous system structure and function;
  3. understand fundamentals of neuropharmacology and its limitations;
  4. familiarity with fundamentals of neurologic examination and assessment;
  5. recognise the aspects of nervous system function which determine “quality of life”;
  6. empathy with the consequences of CNS trauma, stroke, pain and general neurologic disability.

Assessment by end-of-year integrated examination which will consist of a written component (67%) and a practical component (33%). Students will also be required to undertake informal on-course assessment tasks.