MSc/PGDip Advanced Audiology Studies

This 15-credit unit focuses on the structure and function of neurosensory systems. Students will gain an appreciation of how the function of auditory, visual and neurophysiological systems is dependent on the underlying anatomical structure and physiological mechanisms.

The unit will utilise different teaching methodologies, with some topics being taught on synchronous lectures and tutorials, while others will be delivered via Blackboard independent and/or asynchronous learning.

The unit aims to provide a theoretical and scientific foundation in the major academic areas in neurosensory science relevant to audiologists, ophthalmologists, and neurophysiologists.

• An overview of the anatomy and physiology of the human body.
• The physics of sound and light.
• Anatomy and physiology of neurosensory systems.
• Central and peripheral neural pathways.
• Auditory and visual pereption.

Synchronous and asynconous online lectures, directed and related reading, self directed study, tutorials.

Scientific basis of Healthcare Science:

• Describe the cellular, tissue and systems responses to disease and discuss those body systems and processes relevant to neurosensory systems.

Audiology theme:

• Describe basic mathematics and physics relevant to introductory acoustics and the use of appropriate units.
• Discuss the essential structures and functions of auditory pathways.
• Understand key aspects of the perception of sound and how these relate both to speech perception and to the underlying anatomy and physiology.

Neurophysiology theme:

• Describe the peripheral, central and autonomic nervous system.
• Discuss the essential structures and functions of neural pathways.

• Be able to critically appraise scientific literature.
• Be able to critically analyse and objectively interpret information/data.

• Present information clearly in the form of verbal and written reports.
• Communicate complex ideas and arguments in a clear and concise and effective manner.
• Work effectively as an individual or part of a team.
• Use conventional and electronic resources to collect, select and organise complex scientific information.

• Effectively utilise a range of information sources including information technology / health informatics.
• Demonstrate capacity for self-learning and independent thinking and to utilise problem solving skills.
• Demonstrate effective communication skills (verbal and written).
• Be able to set priorities and link these with effective time management.
• Critically evaluate their personal performance both as an individual and within a team.
• Demonstrate skills in working collegiately and effectively with others as a member of a team.

1. Written assignment (3000 words, 100%)

Written feedback.

Lenz, J.L. (2020) Psychoacoustics: Perception of Normal and Impaired Hearing with Audiological Applications. Plural Publishing, 2020. ISBN: 9781597569897

Musiek, F.E., Baran, J.A. The Auditory System; Anatomy, Physiology, and Clinical Correlates (2nd Ed) Plural Publishing, 2020. ISBN: 9781944883003

Gelfand, S.A. Hearing: an introduction to psychological and physiological acoustics. 6th Edition. New York, Dekker, 2018. ISBN: 9781498775427

Batterbury, M., Bowling, B., Murphy, C. Ophthalmology (3 Ed). Elsevier, 2011. ISBN: 978-0-7020-3059-8

Root, T. OphthoBook. CreateSpace, 2009. Free online version: http://www.ophthobook.com/

Kolb, H. et al. WebVision, 2009/ Free online resource on structure of visual system: http://webvision.med.utah.edu/book/

Iaizzo, P (2013) Chapter 1 Introduction to Neurophysiology, in Bin He (Ed) Neural Engineering, Springer US, New York (available as e Springer Link through UoM library)