MSc/PGDip Advanced Audiology Studies / Course details

Year of entry: 2024

Course unit details:
Auditory Science

Course unit fact file
Unit code PCHN60041
Credit rating 15
Unit level FHEQ level 7 – master's degree or fourth year of an integrated master's degree
Teaching period(s) Semester 1
Available as a free choice unit? No

Overview

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

The unit will utilise different teaching methodologies, with some topics being taught on campus via lectures, and tutorials, while others will be delivered online .

Content:

  • An overview of the anatomy and physiology of the Auditory System
  • The physics of sound, speech, linear and nonlinear systems and resonance
  • Auditory perception

Aims

The unit aims to:

  • provide a theoretical and scientific foundation for audiology, including the structure and function of the auditory system; the bases of psychoacoustics and speech perception; and basic elements of physics and measurement relevant to audiology.

 

Teaching and learning methods

  • Lectures
  • Online learning (inc. formative MCQ quizzes)
  • Directed and related reading
  • Self-directed study
  • Tutorials
  • Optional Formative Essay

 

Knowledge and understanding

  • Describe and explain basic elements of physics and acoustics relevant to audiology.
  • Discuss the essential structures and functions of auditory pathways.
  • Demonstrate understanding of key aspects of the perception of sound and how these relate both to speech perception and to the underlying anatomy and physiology.

Intellectual skills

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

Practical skills

  • 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.

Transferable skills and personal qualities

  • 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.

Assessment methods

Written Assignment - 100%

Feedback methods

Written Feedback

Recommended reading

Essential reading:

  • 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

Study hours

Scheduled activity hours
Lectures 40
Independent study hours
Independent study 110

Teaching staff

Staff member Role
Kai Uus Unit coordinator
Richard Baker Unit coordinator

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