Course Catalogue

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This course will explore the importance of physiological science for investigating biological processes, and for addressing challenges for human health. A range of scientific techniques will be considered, from the molecular to population scales, with a focus on integrated approaches to whole-body functioning. Students will consider how different methodologies are selected, combined, and applied to different problems in human health and disease.

There are normally 3 hours of on-campus teaching on Mondays, which may be split over more than one session.

Normally, only available to final-year Life Sciences students in a Human Biology programme or Physiology programme. Visiting students may be allowed to enrol, at the discretion of the Life Sciences Chief Adviser and the Course Coordinator. 

None.

The course will be assessed by a 2-hour examination (70%) and in-course assessment consisting of a portfolio (30%). 

Reassessments are normally available for all courses, except those which contribute to the Honours classification. For non-Honours courses, students are offered reassessment in all or any of the components of assessment if the satisfactory (threshold) grade for the overall course is not achieved at the first attempt. This is normally grade D3 for undergraduate students and grade C3 for postgraduate students. Exceptionally it may not be possible to offer reassessment of some coursework items, in which case the mark achieved at the first attempt will be counted towards the final course grade. Any such exceptions for this course are described below. 

This course aims to develop an understanding of the breadth of scientific approaches used to investigate complex integrated processes in humans, as well as develop students' skills in the critical analysis, interpretation and discussion of scientific themes and data.

By the end of this course, students will be able to: 

■ Explain how different research approaches are applied to the study of human biological processes. 

■ Evaluate the advantages and limitations of different research approaches for investigating human biology and physiology. 

■ Discuss a range of topical issues in human biology and physiology. 

■ Analyse, interpret and critique a variety of different data types and articles related to human biology and physiology.

■ Write an original and engaging account of a physiological topic.

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.