Key facts

UNE unit code: NEUR339

*You are viewing the 2024 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.

Start
  • Trimester 1 - Online
24/7 online support
  • Yes
Intensive schools
  • No
Supervised exam
  • No
Credit points
  • 6

Unit information

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This unit introduces you to the neurobiological factors and processes associated with autism.

You will explore a wide range of topics including genetic, physiological, developmental, hormonal and environmental factors, as well as cell and behavioural, cortical and cerebellar phenotypes.

Data from fMRI and EEG studies is used to illustrate the autistic brain and help you develop a further understanding of this complex and evolving field of study.

Additionally, you will gain an understanding of the procedures and efficacy of a range of neurobiological treatment models for autism.

Offerings

For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.

Teaching period
Mode/location
Trimester 1Online

*Offering is subject to availability

Intensive schools

There are no intensive schools required for this unit.

Enrolment rules

Pre-requisites
72 cps or candidature in a postgraduate award
Restrictions
NEUR539
Combined units

Notes

Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.

Unit coordinator(s)

Vicki Bitsika

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. demonstrate an understanding of the neurobiological factors and processes associated with autism;
  2. demonstrate an understanding of the interactions between genetic, physiological, hormonal, and developmental factors in the creation of autism behavioural phenotypes;
  3. demonstrate an understanding of the 'autism spectrum' via investigation of the key environmental and neurobiological processes and their interactions;
  4. demonstrate an understanding of the basic modalities (eg., fMRI, EEG) used to investigate the autistic brain; and
  5. demonstrate an understanding of the procedures and efficacy of a range of neurobiological treatment models for autism.

Assessment information

Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.

TitleMust CompleteWeightOfferingsAssessment Notes
Assessment 1Yes30%All offerings

Five (5) quizzes of 10 questions each; each quiz is worth 6%.

1000 word equivalent.

Assessment 2Yes35%All offerings

Literature review of neurobiological and environmental contributors to the autism phenotype.

2500 word equivalent

Assessment 3Yes35%All offerings

Efficacy review of the results of fMRI and EEG studies of the autistic brain.

2500 word equivalent

Learning resources

Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.

Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.

Autism: A New Introduction to Psychological Theory and Current Debate

ISBN: 9781138106123

Fletcher-Watson, S. and Happe, F., 2nd ed. 2019

Text refers to: All offerings

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