BMS1031 · Medical biophysics

Overview

This unit will introduce you to the fundamental role of physics in how the body functions. Throughout the semester, you will learn key principals of physics, and apply this knowledge to physiological processes. The concepts will be explored through experimentation and creation of simple models. The concepts studied include the flow of fluids (such as blood and air) in the body, the mechanics of the musculoskeletal system, electrical signals within the brain and nervous system, and the optics involved in vision. These concepts will be explored through a range of scales - from atomic through to whole body systems. By understanding the key principals of physics which govern how our bodies function, you will have gained a solid foundation for further study in the biomedical sciences.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Assessment in this unit includes hurdle assessment tasks. Failure of any hurdle assessment task may result in failure of the unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Explain and apply relevant physics principles to human physiology and biomedical contexts
2. Identify physical factors that should be considered when analysing physiological systems
3. Perform basic experiments, conduct reliable measurements, analyse data and interpret results
4. Accurately communicate scientific information in written and graphical forms
5. Use critical thinking to apply physics principles and models to physiological problems

Workload

The workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours spread across the semester (roughly 12 hours per week) - approximately an even mixture of attendance at scheduled activities and self-scheduled study time. Learning activities comprise a mixture of instructor directed, peer directed and self-directed learning, which includes face-to-face and online engagement.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.