Unit rationale, description and aim
A foundational understanding of human physiological systems and processes is key to the development of further knowledge about the impact of movement and exercise on the human body. This unit introduces human physiological processes from a human movement and exercise performance perspective.
Foundational knowledge is explored across multiple body systems with an emphasis on how these systems and the mechanisms enable functional movement. Foundational lab skills are introduced to complement learning and foster preparation for exploring concepts in subsequent physiology units.
The aim of this unit is to develop knowledge and skills in foundational physiology, build confidence in critical thinking, physiological interpretation and written communication while accommodating the diverse entry points of students.
Campus offering
No unit offerings are currently available for this unit.Learning outcomes
To successfully complete this unit you will be able to demonstrate you have achieved the learning outcomes (LO) detailed in the below table.
Each outcome is informed by a number of graduate capabilities (GC) to ensure your work in this, and every unit, is part of a larger goal of graduating from ACU with the attributes of insight, empathy, imagination and impact.
Explore the graduate capabilities.
Explain the function and interaction of physiologi...
Learning Outcome 01
Describe the integrative nature of the combined ef...
Learning Outcome 02
Apply basic laboratory skills to investigate physi...
Learning Outcome 03
Utilise basic physiological data to identify patte...
Learning Outcome 04
Content
Topics will include:
- Cell transport and cellular foundations for movement
- Mechanisms of skeletal and cardiac muscle contraction in exercise
- Cardiovascular and respiratory responses to physical activity
- Homeostatic regulation of blood pressure and pH during movement
- Fluid regulation and urinary systems
- Neural and sensory systems for movement and coordination
- Introduction to endocrine system and relevant hormones
Assessment strategy and rationale
The assessments are designed to build confidence in critical thinking, physiological interpretation, and written communication. Formative assessments encourage continuous engagement while evaluating students' ability to synthesise and apply knowledge within manageable learning blocks; the written report and reflection provide a flexible, inquiry-based structure that promote critical thinking, integration of foundational theory, and real-world application as students explore a physiological system; while the lab manual develops practical and analytical skills that are critical for subsequent units. The lab manual is an ungraded hurdle which serves as evidence of basic competency regarding laboratory skills which are further developed in subsequent physiology units. The range of tasks fosters preparation for future units in exercise prescription and resistance training.
Transition pedagogies support assessment success through staged tasks, in-class practice activities, early and ongoing feedback, discipline-specific skill development, and enhanced peer collaboration to promote progressive learning and student engagement throughout.
Overview of assessments
To successfully pass the unit, students must demonstrate achievement of all learning outcomes, pass the hurdle task (maximum of 2 attempts), and achieve a minimum overall mark of 50% in the graded assessments.
Assessment 1: Quiz Quiz to assess knowledge and ...
Assessment 1: Quiz
Quiz to assess knowledge and understanding of learning content and lab skills
10%
Assessment 2: Quiz Quiz to assess knowledge and ...
Assessment 2: Quiz
Quiz to assess knowledge and understanding of learning content and lab skills
20%
Assessment 3: Quiz Quiz to assess knowledge and ...
Assessment 3: Quiz
Quiz to assess knowledge and understanding of learning content and lab skills
20%
Assessment 4: Written assessment Unpacking the C...
Assessment 4: Written assessment
Unpacking the Complexity of Human Physiology: A System-Based Inquiry
This written task promotes critical thinking, integration of foundational theory, and real-world application.
50%
Hurdle task* Completion & submission of ungr...
Hurdle task*
Completion & submission of ungraded lab manual
Hurdle task*
*Students who fail the hurdle task on their first attempt will be provided one additional attempt to pass at a time referred to on the Learning Management System.
Learning and teaching strategy and rationale
This unit uses an evidence-based, inquiry-driven approach to develop foundational knowledge of human physiology. It combines pre-recorded online lectures with laboratory sessions to link theory and practice. Early exposure to physiological measurement builds technical skills while case-based discussions foster critical thinking. A formative learning approach is used to support students' transition into higher education and foster foundational academic skills. The provision of formative assessments allows students to develop confidence, receive timely feedback, and progressively build academic competencies needed for success in subsequent coursework and assists the developmental journey of students.
To support students transitioning from the Diploma to second‑year undergraduate study, the unit uses targeted transition pedagogies that strengthen discipline foundations and essential study competencies through an active, engaging and supportive learning approach.