Indicative Content
The module will develop an understanding of how the cellular and organ systems making up the human body interact with each other in a constant state of flux to support a healthy human. This will be achieved by following themes that integrate theory and practice and which build upon physiological interactions. The importance of the control and balance of these systems will be investigated by the study and analysis of the norm verses disease states.
The physiological systems studied will focus on the following; the nervous system, neuromuscular system; respiratory system; cardiovascular system; gastrointestinal control; hepatic function; renal system; and endocrine physiology. An important aspect of the physiological study is to show how the individual organ systems interact to promote the well being of the whole person in a section on homeostatic integration that includes aspects of immunology. These will be developed in order to integrate theory with practical experience whilst also developing themes relating systems to disease states, e.g. respiratory system and asthma, the nervous system and Alzheimer's disease
Engagement with hands on practical activities including: spirometry, kinaesthesia, blood pressure monitoring, ECG, EMG, and urine analysis will put the theory into context. It will develop and reinforce laboratory skills that have been shown to enhance employability prospects. This is also enhanced by the use of scenarios within the module that are likely to be encountered in the workplace. Using scenarios and comparing the norm with diseased situations will ensure interaction with the material being delivered and lead to the use of appropriate research and medical literature. Consequently the content of the module can be appraised with a variety of clinical reference sources for a chosen diseased state within the assessed report.
Learning Strategies
The module uses a blend of face to face lectures (10hrs), workshops and practicals (30hrs) supported by a VLE containing additional formative tasks and support materials. Data/research workshops will link the theory and practice with research. Lectures will be used to deliver subject specific information and tutor lead discussion on human physiological topics relevant to that delivery. Practicals will be used to follow up and build on the theory in the lectures. A range of multimedia support will be available via the VLE. The E-library and Faculty LRC will be used to support investigations into secondary and primary literature sources linked to the assessment.
Guide to weekly time management (4 contact hours x 10 weeks)
Contact hours
Lecture 1 hour
Practical / workshop activity 3 hours
Self directed study = 11 hours (x 10weeks). As a rough guide self directed study should involve
1 to 2 hours reading the practical/workshop schedule before attending the contact sessions
2 to 3 hours reading and making notes from reference sources before attending the contact session
3 to 4 hours reviewing and reflecting on the lecture and practical, making additional notes post the session (i.e. re-read reference notes).
3 to 4 hours using the VLE to investigate the formative work suggested.
Texts
Martini, Nath and Bartholomew (2015). Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology: (International edition, 10th edition). ISBN 9781292057217
Reed, Weyers and Jones. (2016) Practical Skills in Biology (5th edition). Pearson
Resources
Equipped laboratory and Lecture room with VLE integration
Small group teaching rooms for tutorials with multimedia tools available
Internet linked PC
Library and access to e-journals and e-books
Learning Outcomes
1. EVALUATE THE INTER-RELATIONSHIP OF ORGAN SYTEMS AND CONSEQUENCES OF HOMEOSTATIC DYSFUNCTION
Knowledge and Understanding
2. ANALYSE THE ROLE OF CELLULAR TISSUE AND ORGAN ANATOMY IN THE FACILITATION OF THE BODIES PHYSIOLOGICAL MECHANISMS
Application
Enquiry
Knowledge and Understanding
3. EVALUATE THE PHYSIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE AND INTERACTION OF INDIVIDUAL ORGAN SYSTEMS OF THE HUMAN BODY IN HEALTH AND DISEASE BASED UPON EXPERIMENTAL EVIDENCE, PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE AND THEORETICAL BACKGROUND
Application
Enquiry
Knowledge and Understanding
4. CRITICALLY EVALUATE EXPERIMENTAL EVIDENCE FROM BOTH PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE AND CURRENT LITERATURE
Analysis
Reflection
Assessment Details
There is One summative pieces of assessment for this module
ONE: a PORTFOLIO weighted at 100% and submitted at the end of the module. This will take the form of a weekly evaluation of and analysis of physiological data derived from the practical sessions
1) Students submit the portfolio after 5 and 10 weeks containing all the practical evaluation elements for formative feedback.
2) From the feedback plus the addition of theoretical review students will construct a portfolio for submission at the end of the modules delivery (equivalent to 3000 words)
Learning outcomes: 1, 2, 3, 4
Additional Assessment Details (including formative feedback / assessment):
Time will be made available for formative feedback activities during workshops.
Criteria relating to these assessments are available in the module handbook, and for the intranet-supported assignment on the server dedicated to this assessment type.