PHY3181 Reproductive physiology
Faculty of Science
PHY3181 Reproductive physiology is a level 3, 6-credit-point, undergraduate unit from the Faculty of Science, offered in 2027 in Semester 1 at Clayton. It has no prerequisites.
- Credit points
- 6
- Offered in 2027
- Semester 1
- Clayton
- Assessment
- Exam 25%
- and 3 other tasks
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Requisites
Overview
This unit presents you with an introduction to cutting-edge research in the detailed study of reproduction including hormonal control, ovarian and menstrual cycles, fertilization and reproductive diseases. You will consider how various physiological states such as body weight, stress and aging influence reproduction. You will explore current research ideas on normal function and dysfunction in this area, and new technologies.
Offerings in 2027
| Teaching period | Campus | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| First semester | Clayton | Bld blk |
Assessment
- In-semester assessments (report, abstract, worksheet)Written50%
- Multiple choice testQuiz / Test10%
- Multimedia presentation with Q&A sessionPresentation15%
- Final assessment - Exam (2 hours and 10 minutes)Examination25%
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Learning outcomes
When you finish this unit, you should be able to:
- 1
Describe the structures and functions of the endocrine system in the body;
- 2
Explain the hormonal and neuronal control of male and female reproductive function;
- 3
Explain the consequences of abnormal reproductive physiology and the associated diseases or pathologies;
- 4
Critically evaluate the scientific literature and present current reproductive physiology research in written and oral forms;
- 5
Demonstrate physiology laboratory skills, including dissection, histology, data analysis and graphing;
- 6
Work in groups to complete experimental projects and communicate research developments in applied reproduction topics.
Workload and teaching
- Laboratories6 hours
- Workshops11 hours
- Teaching approachPeer assisted learning
- Teaching approachActive learning
- Teaching approachResearch activities
- 6 hours of directed learning (pre-recorded video lectures, laboratory classes/workshops, pre and post-class/lecture activities) and
- 6 hours of self-directed study per week
You are required to work in teams to research a topic related to the lecture content of applied reproduction and present the information as an oral presentation.
A data-based research project is offered instead of practical/laboratory session where you are given the opportunity to analyse data and interpret the findings in terms of specific hypotheses in female reproduction. The work is designed to reinforce lecture content.
You are required to complete two laboratory classes where practical skills are taught around two specific research areas: male reproduction and neuroendocrinology. For both projects, you will generate data that needs to be analysed and interpreted and communicate the findings in the form of a written scientific report or worksheet.
Learning resources
Required resources
Prescribed textbook: Vander’s Human Physiology (by Widmaier, Raff and Strang).
Contacts
- Unit Coordinators
- Dr Christine Lee
- Professor Renea Taylor
- Chief Examiners
- Dr Christine Lee
Common questions
What are the prerequisites for PHY3181?
PHY3181 has no prerequisites, but enrolment rules apply.
When is PHY3181 offered?
In 2027, PHY3181 runs in Semester 1 at Clayton.
Does PHY3181 have an exam?
Yes. The exam is worth 25% of the final mark, alongside 3 other tasks.