Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology: Course Organization and Study Skills

Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology

Overview

Anatomy and Physiology is a foundational course for students pursuing careers in health sciences, including nursing, dental hygiene, radiology, therapy, and related fields. The course covers the structure and function of the human body, integrating both lecture and laboratory components to provide a comprehensive understanding of bodily systems.

Course Organization

Lecture vs Lab

• Scheduling: Lectures and labs may not always be synchronized; students should check schedules regularly.

• Focus: Lectures emphasize physiology (body functions), while labs focus on anatomy (body structure).

Lecture Components

• Homework: Includes online quizzes and case studies to reinforce learning.

• Unit Tests: Five major tests assess understanding throughout the course.

Online Enhancements

• Quizzes and Case Studies: Required for course completion.

• Study Guides and Animations: Supplementary materials to aid comprehension.

Grading Structure

• Lecture: 70% of the final grade.

• Lab: 30% of the final grade.

Small Group Activity

Course Logistics and Expectations

• Identify group members and their majors.

• Review chapters and body systems covered in the course.

• Locate vocabulary quizzes and understand which attempt counts.

• Know deadlines for case study assignments and proper citation methods (MLA/APA).

• Understand test schedules, formats, and procedures for missed tests.

• Prepare for lab sessions, including dress code requirements.

Majors Benefiting from Anatomy and Physiology

• Nursing

• Dental Hygiene/Assisting

• Radiology/Ultrasound

• Physical/Occupational/Recreational Therapy/Kinesiology

• Others in health sciences

Academic Integrity in Case Studies

Proper Quoting and Referencing

• Do not copy and paste from websites without proper citation.

• Use direct quotes and provide MLA/APA references when necessary.

• Paraphrase information and provide MLA/APA references (preferred method).

• Textbook answers may not require citation, but always follow instructor guidelines.

Developing Study Skills

Learning Modalities

• Visual: Engage sight through written materials, diagrams, and multimedia presentations.

• Auditory: Use hearing by listening to lectures, discussing with peers, and employing mnemonics.

• Tactile/Kinesthetic: Involve touch and movement by manipulating models and conducting experiments in lab.

Active learning strategies include annotating notes, drawing diagrams, and repeating key concepts aloud.

Key Definitions

• Anatomy: The study of the structure of the human body.

• Physiology: The study of the functions and processes of the human body.

Branches of Anatomy and Physiology

• Gross Anatomy: Study of structures visible to the naked eye.

• Microscopic Anatomy: Study of structures requiring magnification (e.g., histology).

• Systemic Anatomy: Study of body systems (e.g., cardiovascular, respiratory).

• Pathophysiology: Study of functional changes associated with disease.

Course Systems and Chapters

The course typically covers major body systems such as:

• Integumentary

• Skeletal

• Muscular

• Nervous

• Endocrine

• Cardiovascular

• Respiratory

• Digestive

• Urinary

• Reproductive

Refer to the lab manual for detailed coverage of organs and systems.

Summary Table: Course Organization

Component	Description
Lecture	Focuses on physiology; includes quizzes, case studies, and tests
Lab	Focuses on anatomy; hands-on activities and experiments
Online Enhancements	Study guides, animations, required quizzes and case studies
Grading	70% lecture, 30% lab

Example: Proper Citation in Case Studies

• Paraphrase: Restate information in your own words and provide an MLA or APA reference.

• Direct Quote: Use quotation marks and cite the source using MLA or APA format.

Additional info: Academic integrity is essential in all assignments. Always follow the instructor's guidelines for citation and referencing.