Human Anatomy Lab: Course Syllabus and Study Guide

Study Guide - Smart Notes

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I. Course Overview

This course provides an introduction to human anatomy with a focus on hands-on laboratory experiences, including cadaver dissection and study. It is designed for students in health-related fields and emphasizes the identification and understanding of human anatomical structures.

II. Course Objectives

Knowledge of Anatomical Structures: Students will develop a basic anatomical knowledge of major organ systems through direct observation and dissection.
Application of Anatomical Terminology: Students will learn and use correct anatomical terms to describe body structures and their relationships.
Critical Thinking: Students will analyze and interpret anatomical information to solve problems and answer questions related to human anatomy.
Preparation for Health Professions: The course prepares students for further study and professional work in health sciences by fostering skills in observation, analysis, and communication.

III. Program Student Learning Outcomes

Identification: Students will identify human cells, tissues, organs, and specific features on microscope slides, models, and cadavers.
Communication: Students will communicate effectively with health care professionals using appropriate anatomical terminology.

IV. Required Materials

Textbook: Gaines, R. (2018). Kendall Hunt Human Anatomy Lab, 3rd Edition. ISBN: 9781524967817.
Ancillary Materials: Mastering A&P Human Anatomy Access Code, Pearson Practice Anatomy Lab (PAL).
Blackboard Materials: Additional resources and assignments are available on the course Blackboard site.

V. Course Structure and Assignments

Lab Sessions: Weekly laboratory sessions with hands-on activities, dissections, and model studies.
Lab Quiz: Timed quiz to assess pre-lab preparation and understanding of upcoming lab material.
Pre-Lab Assignments: Written assignments to be completed before each lab session, focusing on the identification and function of anatomical structures.
Lab Practical Exams: Exams requiring identification of structures on models, slides, and cadavers.
Final Lab Practical Exam: Comprehensive exam covering all material studied during the semester.

VI. Grading Policy

Lab Quiz: 10 points
Pre-Lab Assignments: 20 points each (2 assignments)
Lab Practical Exams: 50 points each (2 exams)
Final Lab Practical Exam: 70 points
Program Learning Outcome Assessment: 20 points
Grading Scale: 90–100% = A, 80–89% = B, 70–79% = C, 60–69% = D, <60% = F

VII. Attendance and Participation

Attendance: Regular attendance is expected for success in the course. Students are responsible for all material covered during absences.
Lab Work: Late work is not accepted. All assignments must be submitted on time.
Participation: Active participation in lab activities and discussions is required.

VIII. Academic Integrity and Conduct

Academic Honesty: Students are expected to follow the university's code of conduct. Cheating, plagiarism, and unauthorized use of electronic devices are prohibited.
Respect for Cadaver Lab: Proper behavior and respect for cadaver specimens are mandatory.

IX. Course Calendar (Sample Topics and Schedule)

Week	Lab Topic	Assignments/Exams
1	Body as a Whole, Histology	Lab 1 Quiz
2	Integumentary System, Compact Bone Histology	Pre-Lab Assignment 1
3	Axial Skeleton, Appendicular Skeleton	Lab Practical Exam 1
4	Muscular System (Head, Neck, Trunk, Upper Limb, Lower Limb)	Pre-Lab Assignment 2
5	Nervous System, Special Senses	Lab Practical Exam 2
6	Cardiovascular System, Respiratory System	Final Lab Practical Exam

Additional info: The above table is a summary; the full schedule includes more detailed breakdowns of each lab session and associated readings.

X. Key Terms and Concepts

Anatomical Position: The standard reference position for the body in the study of anatomy.
Histology: The study of tissues at the microscopic level.
Integumentary System: The organ system that includes skin, hair, nails, and associated glands.
Axial Skeleton: The part of the skeleton that consists of the bones of the head and trunk.
Appendicular Skeleton: The portion of the skeleton that includes the limbs and girdles.
Cadaver Dissection: The process of studying anatomy through the examination of preserved human bodies.

XI. Example: Anatomical Terminology

Superior vs. Inferior: Superior means above; inferior means below.
Anterior vs. Posterior: Anterior refers to the front; posterior refers to the back.
Medial vs. Lateral: Medial means toward the midline; lateral means away from the midline.

XII. Formulas and Equations

Body Mass Index (BMI):

XIII. Study Tips

Review anatomical models and diagrams regularly.
Practice identifying structures on cadavers, models, and slides.
Use flashcards and repetition to memorize key terms and locations.
Form study groups to discuss and quiz each other on anatomical features.