Course overview
- Study period
- Semester 2, 2024 (22/07/2024 - 18/11/2024)
- Study level
- Undergraduate
- Location
- Gatton
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 2
- Administrative campus
- Gatton
- Coordinating unit
- Veterinary Science School
A comparative approach to reproductive anatomy & physiology with emphasis on species considered of veterinary importance; The practical/clinical significance of structures & endocrine interactions; purposes, benefits & methods of manipulating reproduction with emphasis on current production & breeding management systems.
General:
VETS2008 is designed to provide students with a deeper understanding of the structure and the function of tissues and organs making up the reproductive system. The relationship between structure and ﾠfunction of tissues and organs is explored. Examples of anatomy (structure) and physiology (function) are drawn primarily from 5 major domestic animal species - sheep, cattle, horses, pigsﾠ and dogs. This is intended to highlight the relevance of understanding animal reproduction from the three perspectives of animals used for food (sheep, cattle, pig), sport/leisure (horses) and as companions (dogs).
The intent is to achieve a competent understanding of the reproductive system ﾠand reproductive cycles to provide a good working foundation for more advanced learning in later years of the BVSc (Hons) program. The course is a foundation for the 4th year course, VETS4034, which highlights the clinical discipline of Theriogenology (clinical practice of veterinary gynaecology, andrology and obstetrics).ﾠ VETS2008 includes anatomy, physiology, animal husbandry, clinical aspects of puberty, estrous cycles, sperm and oocyte production, pregnancy, parturition and the post-partum period. It also explores aspects of applied reproduction such as management procedures to optimise fertility,ﾠsynchronisation of estrous cycles and artificial breeding.ﾠﾠ
Anatomy:
Gross and histological reproductive anatomy of the male and female will be covered, with emphasis on structures of clinical significance.ﾠCommon abnormalities and their origin will also be described so that the student can understand how abnormalities occur and where they will most likely be encountered.
Physiology:
Hormone production, interaction and function will be discussed in relation to hormone effects on the reproductive tract and testis/ovary function. This is followed by the reproductive cycle from mating, fertilisation, through to initiation of pregnancy, embryonic development followed by parturition (birth) and lactation.
Applied Reproduction:
Aspects of applied reproduction will be explored across different species in practical and tutorial classes.
Practical Component:
Practical classes will be provided in both macroscopic and microscopic reproductive anatomy. In addition, applied practicals will provide an introduction to the basic skills required in the practice of veterinary reproduction. These skills will be further developed in VETS4034.
Course requirements
Assumed background
For the hands-on animal practicals, students must have acquiredﾠanﾠunderstanding of and competency in animal husbandry, handling and production (particularly VETS1025).ﾠFor the assignment,ﾠskills acquired inﾠVeterinary Professional Foundationsﾠ(VETS1018) are central to theﾠcriticalﾠevaluation of data presented in research papers.ﾠ
Prerequisites
You'll need to complete the following courses before enrolling in this one:
AGRC1041
Incompatible
You can't enrol in this course if you've already completed the following:
VETS2505
Restrictions
Enrolment restricted to Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Honours) students only.
Course contact
Course staff
Lecturer
Dr Taylor Pini
Dr Jodilee Penn
Tutor
Mr Rod Verrall
Mr Pranav Narayanan
Timetable
The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.
Additional timetable information
A detailed lecture and practical plan are available on the VETS2008 Blackboard site. The course consists of approximately 36 lectures in 4 modules: 1) Male, 2) Female, 3) Pregnancy & Parturition, 4) Exotics. To supplement the lectures there will be three anatomy practicals (male, female, pregnancy/lactation), one practical forﾠsemen assessment,ﾠfive animal pracs/tutes (2x bovine,ﾠovine, porcine andﾠcanine) and two tutorials (female cycles, pregnancy).
Please be aware that due to unforeseen circumstances it may be necessary to make changes to the timetable throughout the semester and so it is important to check VETS2008 Blackboard site regularly. Students will be notified of changes to the timetable via Blackboard Announcements.
Aims and outcomes
The aim of the course is to identify the core principles of reproductive physiology which underpin the capacity toﾠcritically evaluate andﾠsolve common problems in animal reproduction. VETS2008ﾠprovides the basic knowledge and skills required to evaluate the fertility ofﾠindividuals and groups of animals, and provide advice on optimising fertility, management of pregnancy,ﾠparturition and preparation for subsequent breedings.ﾠﾠ
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
Describe and identify the normal reproductive anatomy (structure) and physiology (function), before and after puberty, of the male and female in model animal species.
LO2.
Discuss how gamete production, development and function results in successful fertilisation.
LO3.
Discuss hormonal control of estrous cycles and evaluate methods to manipulate the cycle to optimize fertility.
LO4.
Evaluate the significance of events leading to the initiation and successful maintenance of pregnancy in domestic species.
LO5.
Describe how gestation is maintained in animals by explaining the roles of hormones, maternal recognition of pregnancy, embryonic/foetal development and parturition.
LO6.
Apply knowledge of the development of the placenta, embryo/fetus and associated hormones to identify appropriate methods of pregnancy diagnosis.
LO7.
Demonstrate knowledge of functional anatomy and physiology through application to problems of clinical significance in domestic animals.
LO8.
Evaluate reproductive performance of individuals and groups of animals by analyzing records and gathering history of management and reproductive practices.
LO9.
Work together in small groups to read and critically analyze the scientific literature.
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Examination |
End of semester examination
|
50% |
End of Semester Exam Period 2/11/2024 - 16/11/2024 |
| Presentation |
Group project: Critical literature review
|
20% |
3/10/2024 12:00 pm |
| Quiz |
Assessment Sequence: Male, female and pregnancy/parturition/lactation
|
30% |
Quiz 1: Male reproduction 14/08/2024 10:00 am Quiz 2: Female reproduction 6/09/2024 1:00 pm Quiz 3: Pregnancy, parturition and lactation 11/10/2024 1:00 pm |
A hurdle is an assessment requirement that must be satisfied in order to receive a specific grade for the course. Check the assessment details for more information about hurdle requirements.
Assessment details
End of semester examination
- Hurdle
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 50%
- Due date
End of Semester Exam Period
2/11/2024 - 16/11/2024
- Other conditions
- Time limited.
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08
Task description
The end of semester is an on-campus invigilated examination. The exam contributes 50% of the final grade and is a 120 minute exam held during the exam period. This exam will cover ALL material presented in the lectures and practical classes, with focus on applying knowledge to clinically relevant scenarios. The exam will incorporate a range of questions available in the Inspera examination platform.
Hurdle requirements
Students who fail the end of semester exam will fail the course and, if eligible under the Program Rules, will sit an exam that covers the content of the whole course.Exam details
| Planning time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 120 minutes |
| Calculator options | No calculators permitted |
| Open/closed book | Closed Book examination - no written materials permitted |
| Exam platform | Paper based |
| Invigilation | Invigilated in person |
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to defer this exam.
Group project: Critical literature review
- Team or group-based
- Mode
- Oral, Product/ Artefact/ Multimedia
- Category
- Presentation
- Weight
- 20%
- Due date
3/10/2024 12:00 pm
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09
Task description
In groups of approximately 4 students, select one manuscript, critically evaluate it and present your evaluation via a short (~10-15 min) video. This video is aimed at explaining the significance and quality of the manuscript to your peers (e.g. How reliable are the results and conclusions of the paper? To what extent did the paper add to current knowledge at the time of publication?). As part of your evaluation, concisely explain the background reproductive physiology concepts and application of the findings to veterinary practice.
A list of manuscripts, groups and further assessment details will be provided during semester. Guidelines and marking criteria for this assignment are in the Blackboard assessment folder.
Submission guidelines
Instructions for submission are on Blackboard under 'Assessments'.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
Late submissions will be penalized by 10% per day.
Assessment Sequence: Male, female and pregnancy/parturition/lactation
- In-person
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Quiz
- Weight
- 30%
- Due date
Quiz 1: Male reproduction 14/08/2024 10:00 am
Quiz 2: Female reproduction 6/09/2024 1:00 pm
Quiz 3: Pregnancy, parturition and lactation 11/10/2024 1:00 pm
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08
Task description
There will be a assessment sequencing consisting of 3 quizzes throughout semester:
- In Week 4: Male reproduction - covers anatomy and physiology of males
- In Week 7: Female reproduction - covers anatomy and physiology of females
- In Week 11: Pregnancy, parturition and lactation - covers anatomy and physiology of pregnancy, parturition and lactation
Dates are subject to change in consultation with the year group (e.g. to avoid conflict with other major assessments).
All quizzes are online (Blackboard), invigilated in class quizzes. Each quiz is worth 10%, with a total of 30 questions worth 1 mark each. Students will be given a random selection of questions in random order.
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to defer this exam.
Late submission
You will receive a mark of 0 if this assessment is submitted late.
Course grading
Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.
| Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 (Low Fail) |
Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: 1-29% |
| 2 (Fail) |
Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: 30-44% |
| 3 (Marginal Fail) |
Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes Course grade description: 45-49% |
| 4 (Pass) |
Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: 50-64% |
| 5 (Credit) |
Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: 65-74% |
| 6 (Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: 75-84% |
| 7 (High Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: 85-100% |
Additional course grading information
To pass the course, students must obtain at least 50% overall and at least 50% in the end of semester examination.ﾠ Students are not required to pass the assignment or quizzes to pass the course.
Supplementary assessment
Supplementary assessment is available for this course.
Should you fail a course with a grade of 3, you may be eligible for supplementary assessment. Refer to my.UQ for information on supplementary assessment and how to apply.
Supplementary assessment provides an additional opportunity to demonstrate you have achieved all the required learning outcomes for a course.
If you apply and are granted supplementary assessment, the type of supplementary assessment set will consider which learning outcome(s) have not been met.
Supplementary assessment can take any form (such as a written report, oral presentation, examination or other appropriate assessment) and may test specific learning outcomes tailored to the individual student, or all learning outcomes.
To receive a passing grade of 3S4, you must obtain a mark of 50% or more on the supplementary assessment.
Additional assessment information
For INSPERA exams, the summary page shows a ‘SUBMIT NOW’ button that students must click to submit their answers. After submission, students will receive a confirmation on the dashboard that they have submitted and can no longer edit responses. For all End of Semester exams with durations of 60, 90, 120 or 180 minutes you will receive an additional 10 minutes of planning time to read the examination questions and plan your responses, but you may commence working if you wish. It’s essential that you check before the exam that your laptop meets the device requirements for Inspera assessments. If you do not own a suitable laptop, you can borrow one from the Library. Get familiar with Inspera provides the most up to date information for students about using Inspera. Power outlets will not be available during exams.
Learning resources
You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.
Library resources
Find the required and recommended resources for this course on the UQ Library website.
Other course materials
If we've listed something under further requirement, you'll need to provide your own.
Required
| Item | Description | Further Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Lab Coat & closed in shoes | Required for Anatomy Practical's | own item needed |
| Lab coat and closed shoes | Semen assessment practical | own item needed |
| Work boots and overalls | Ovine practical | own item needed |
| Gumboots and overalls (sleeveless recommended) | Bovine practical @ dairy | own item needed |
Additional learning resources information
Blackboard:
The Blackboard site for VETS2008 is where you'll find all the learning material, including lecture slides and recordings, practical and tutorial notes, an up to date timetable and additional resouces.
Textbooks:
Most reproduction texts are quite dense and less than inspiring reading. If you are looking at purchasing just one text that covers most of the basic course material, then Senger is recommended. Senger is an easy read with good illustrations. If you wish to purchase a specific anatomy text, Textbook of veterinary anatomy is probably the most useful, and if you are looking for a specific physiology book then Cunningham's textbook of veterinary physiology is the most useful.
In addition to the recommended reference material, you may find the following useful both now and in later years: Noakes, DE, Parkinson, TJ & England, GCW (eds) 2019, Veterinary reproduction and obstetrics, 10th edn, Saunders, Edinburgh.ﾠ SF887 .A7 2009.
Websites:
The internet can be a wonderful resource for finding information, but take care with what you find online, as it's not always correct!ﾠSome of the following websites provide useful information on animal reproduction.
Library of Reproduction Imagesﾠﾠﾠﾠ
International Embryo Transfer Society
ﾠJournals:
In general, articles published as review papers in peer-reviewed journals are likely to include more comprehensive and recent information on animal reproduction.ﾠ
Ensuring work-life balance and seeking help at an early stage are key attributes for successful study at university. UQ Student Servicesﾠand the Student Union (UQU) provide many resources for students studying at UQ. Student Services provide a range of mindfulness programs and counselling services to help improve confidence and overall wellbeing. UQU also provide a range of student support, welfare and wellbeing resources.
If immediate help is needed, please call the 24/7ﾠUQ Counselling and Crisis Line 1300 851 998
Learning activities
The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.
Filter activity type by
Please select
| Learning period | Activity type | Topic |
|---|---|---|
Multiple weeks From Week 1 To Week 5 |
Lecture |
Male reproduction lectures Weeks 1-3. Lecture series covering male reproductive anatomy and physiology. Sub-activity: Testis and epididymis Scrotum and spermatic cord Accessory sex glands Penis and prepuce Male hormones Spermatogenesis Sperm maturation and assessment Erection and ejaculation Male puberty Male reproductive System- Student feedback Clinical applications related to male reproduction systems Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04, L07, L08, L09 |
Week 2 (29 Jul - 04 Aug) |
Practical |
Male anatomy practical Week 2. Male reproductive anatomy and histology. Sub-activity: Anatomy of male reproductive systems in domestic animals Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04, L07, L08 |
Week 3 (05 Aug - 11 Aug) |
Practical |
Semen assessment practical Basics of qualitative and quantitative laboratory semen assessment for male breeding soundness evaluation. Sub-activity: Assessment of Semen/spermatozoa viability Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04, L07, L08 |
Multiple weeks From Week 4 To Week 7 |
Lecture |
Female reproduction lectures Lecture series covering female reproductive anatomy and physiology. Sub-activity: Structure and function of Vulva, vagina, cervix Structure and function of Uterus and oviducts Structure and function of ovary Female hormones Oestrous cycles Oogenesis- Follicular phase Oogenesis- Luteal phase female puberty in animals Female reproductive system- student feedback and questions Clinical applications related to female reproduction systems Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09 |
Multiple weeks From Week 5 To Week 10 |
Practical |
Bovine and ovine practical Practical sessions in cattle and sheep on pregnancy diagnosis by rectal palpation, semen collection and artificial breeding. Sub-activity: Introduction to Palpation Species Focused prac - Bovine Species Focused prac - ovine Learning outcomes: L01, L07 |
Week 5 (19 Aug - 25 Aug) |
Practical |
Female anatomy practical Female reproductive anatomy and histology. Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08 |
Multiple weeks From Week 6 To Week 8 |
Practical |
Canine and porcine practical Practical sessions on pigs and dogs, focusing on semen collection, artificial insemination, vaginal cytology and pregnancy diagnosis. Sub-activity: Species focused practical- canine Species focused practical- porcine Learning outcomes: L01, L07 |
Multiple weeks From Week 8 To Week 11 |
Lecture |
Pregnancy & parturition lectures Weeks 8-12. Lecture series covering pregnancy, parturition and post-parturition recovery. Sub-activity: Sperm transport & fertilisation Embryology Pregnancy recognition Structure and function of the placenta in domestic animals Maintenance of pregnancy Parturition Lactation Uterine involution and resuming cycling Clinical application - pregnancy diagnosis Pregnancy and parturition- feedback and student questions Learning outcomes: L04, L05, L06, L07, L09 |
Week 10 (30 Sep - 06 Oct) |
Tutorial |
Clinical Reproduction Tutorial Tutorial on Female Reproductive Tract Learning outcomes: L07, L08 |
Week 11 (07 Oct - 13 Oct) |
Practical |
Pregnancy and lactation anatomy practical Anatomy and histology of pregnancy and lactation. Learning outcomes: L01, L04, L05, L06 |
Week 12 (14 Oct - 20 Oct) |
Tutorial |
Pregnancy diagnosis tutorial Tutorial covering applied aspects of pregnancy diagnosis. Learning outcomes: L01, L07 |
Week 13 (21 Oct - 27 Oct) |
Lecture |
Exotics lectures Lecture series covering avian, reptile and small mammal reproduction. Learning outcomes: L01, L07, L08 |
Additional learning activity information
Refer to Practical Schedule on Blackboard for detailed scheduling information.
Policies and procedures
University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:
- Student Code of Conduct Policy
- Student Integrity and Misconduct Policy and Procedure
- Assessment Procedure
- Examinations Procedure
- Reasonable Adjustments - Students Policy and Procedure
Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.
You'll also need to be aware of the following policies and procedures while completing this course: