Year
2020
Units
4.5
Contact
On Campus
1 x 16-hour intensive workshop once-only
1 x 8-hour independent study weekly

Distance Online
1 x 16-hour on-line exercises once-only
1 x 8-hour independent study weekly
Prerequisites
1 Admission into GCCR-Graduate Certificate in Clinical Rehabilitation
1a Admission into GDPCR-Graduate Diploma in Clinical Rehabilitation
1b Admission into MCR-Master of Clinical Rehabilitation
1c Admission into MCRNOT-Master of Clinical Rehabilitation (Neurological Occupational Therapy)
1d Admission into MCRNPT-Master of Clinical Rehabilitation (Neurological Physiotherapy)
Must Satisfy: ((1 or 1a or 1b or 1c or 1d))
Assessment
Assignment(s); Tutorial participation and presentation.
Topic description
This topic focuses on the anatomy and physiology of the peripheral and central nervous system and how it relates to normal function and injury. Principles of neuroplasticity in regards to motor relearning and sensorimotor recovery following injury, and investigative tools such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) will be explored.
Educational aims
This topic aims to:

  1. Review functional neuroanatomy and neurophysiology of the central & peripheral nervous system

  2. Provide current evidence regarding the various properties of neuroplasticity

  3. Explore common investigative tools in clinical neuroscience and their role in neurorehabilitation research

  4. Explain common theories of sensorimotor control and motor relearning.
Expected learning outcomes
On completion of this topic, students will be expected to be able to:

  1. Explain the structure and function of the central and peripheral nervous system, in relation to key principles of neuroplasticity in relation to motor learning

  2. Analyse and synthesise evidence regarding the basic computational theories of human motor control, including the role of the cerebellum in possible skill acquisition, neuroplasticity and feedforward motor control theory

  3. Examine the role of investigative tools such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and magnetoencephalography (MEG)

  4. Critically appraise current research in regards to motor control theory and demonstrate application of this research in the design of intervention strategies in neurorehabilitation

  5. Apply and reflect upon motor control theories to movement impairments observed following upper motor neuron weakness, sensory changes, pain perceptual disorders and other common neurological movement presentations.