Program Overview

MEDI3301 – Clinical Neuroscience

Overview

MEDI3301 – Clinical Neuroscience is a unit offered by Macquarie University, focusing on the pathophysiological basis of common disorders affecting the nervous system. This includes conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, stroke, Parkinson's disease, vision disorders, neurotrauma, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis. The unit explores the current clinical treatment and management of these neurological disorders, highlighting links to ongoing translational research.

General Information

• Unit Convenor and Teaching Staff: Convener and Lecturer - Vivek Gupta, Lecturer - Devaraj Basavarajappa, Lecturer - Stuart Graham.
• Credit Points: 10
• Prerequisites: (MEDI204 or MEDI2300) or (COGS202 or COGS2000) or ((HLTH214 or ANAT2004) and (BIOL257 or BIOL2230))
• Corequisites: None
• Co-badged Status: None
• Unit Description: This unit delves into the pathophysiological basis of common nervous system disorders, including their current clinical treatment and management, with an emphasis on translational research.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

• Describe the concepts and mechanisms underlying major diseases of the nervous system.
• Discuss the current clinical treatment and management strategies for patients with common neurological disorders.
• Evaluate the current research literature investigating nervous system disorders.
• Discuss how research can improve our understanding of the pathological basis and treatment outcomes for nervous system disorders.

Assessment Tasks

• Neuroscience Assignment: 30% - A written report evaluating and discussing a current neurological condition or conditions management and treatment.
• Patient Clinical Education Poster: 20% - A poster to educate patients and their families on a neurological disease.
• End of Session Examination: 50% - A formal exam assessing content delivered across the session.

Delivery and Resources

The unit involves a range of online and face-to-face learning activities, including lectures, tutorials, online modules, and face-to-face activities. Recommended readings include "Principles of Neural Science" by Eric R. Kandel, James H. Schwartz, and Thomas M. Jessell, among others. Active participation requires access to a tablet, laptop, or similar device.

Unit Schedule

The unit is structured over 12 weeks, covering topics from introductory lectures on Alzheimer's disease to revision and final exams. Key topics include Multiple Sclerosis, Vision Disorders, Epilepsy, Depression and Mental Health Disorders, Stroke, Parkinson's disease, Neurotrauma, and Peripheral Neuropathy.

Policies and Procedures

Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central. Students should be aware of the Academic Appeals Policy, Academic Integrity Policy, Academic Progression Policy, Assessment Policy, Fitness to Practice Procedure, and Special Consideration Policy, among others.

Changes from Previous Offering

The AT2 assessment has been replaced with "Patient Clinical Education Poster," and there has been a shift in the weighting of the AT1 and AT2 assessments.

Inclusion and Diversity

Macquarie University promotes an equitable, diverse, and exciting campus community. Students are expected to contribute towards the development of an inclusive culture and practice, respecting the rights and dignity of all individuals.

Professionalism

Professionalism is a key capability in the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences. Students are expected to attend all small group interactive sessions, show respect for peers, and maintain a professional demeanor during learning activities.