The course describes sensory systems in neuroscience and discusses medical issues related to dysfunction within those systems. The course deals with issues that bridge the gap between molecular and cellular approaches and behaviour/perception. Topics in this course include descriptions of the anatomy, physiology and functions of the major senses, including the visual, somatosensory, auditory, olfactory and taste-related nervous systems; mechanisms related to sensory-motor integration; methods of brain imaging and non-invasive recording of brain activity; and a description of diseases of the nervous system, e.g. types of blindness and multiple sclerosis. Students will have practical classes and will write a library-based essay chosen from one of seven projects.

Laboratory/tutorial reports (40%) and final exam (60%)

Two lectures per week: Laboratory/tutorial sessions of up to four hours each.

BIOL2174; or a combination of PSYC2007 and 12 units of first year PSYC or BIOL units.