ANAT 260 Human Anatomy: Course Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to human anatomy, focusing on the microscopic, developmental, and gross anatomy of mammals, with a special emphasis on human anatomy. Students will explore cell structure and function, tissues, organs, and body systems, as well as the organization of the human body. Laboratory work includes the study of developmental, microscopic, and digital body images.

• Course Credits: 4

• Total Course Hours: 83

• Lecture Hours (Online Asynchronous): 47

• Duration: 10 weeks

• Format: Online, with optional synchronous/live sessions via Zoom

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Define the four levels of human body organization: Describe anatomical position, planes, and directions, and apply these to practical implications such as assigning the location of different body parts.

2. Characterize features of a eukaryotic cell: Explain cell structure, organelles, and their main functions.

3. Classify tissue types: Identify the four primary tissue types and differentiate their anatomical features.

4. Describe the features of each organ: Explain location, relations, related structures, blood and nerve supply, and microscopic features.

5. Demonstrate knowledge of organ systems: Define and explain the components, relative positions, and anatomical interrelationships of the organs within each system.

6. Identify tissues and organs on histological slides and models: Use biological specimens and demonstrate microscope and dissection techniques.

Key Topics Covered

• Cell Structure and Function: Study of eukaryotic cells, organelles, and their roles in the body.

• Tissues: Classification and characteristics of epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissues.

• Organs and Organ Systems: Structure, function, and interrelationships of major human organ systems (e.g., integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, reproductive).

• Microscopic Anatomy: Use of histological slides and digital images to identify tissues and organs.

• Developmental Anatomy: Basic principles of human development and embryology.

Course Materials

• Textbook: Human Anatomy by Frederic H. Martini, Robert B. Tallitsch, Judi L. Nath (Pearson, 9th Edition)

• Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (7th Edition, optional)

• Digital Resources: Access code for Complete Anatomy Platform (instructions provided by the university)

Grading Scale

Additional info: Grades such as AU (Audit), CR (Credit), P (Pass), TC (Transfer Credit), W (Withdraw), WP (Withdraw Passing), and WF (Withdraw Failing) have a GPA value of 0.0 and do not affect the GPA.

Evaluation Criteria

• Formative Assessments: Ongoing assignments, quizzes, and interactive episodes designed to provide feedback and support learning.

• Summative Assessments: Major assignments and exams that measure achievement of course and program learning outcomes.

• Assignment Submission: All assignments must be submitted online; late assignments may not be accepted without prior approval.

General Education Program Learning Outcomes

• Employ effective communication skills

• Interpret quantitative data using mathematical principles

• Locate information through multiple sources

• Demonstrate critical thinking skills

Important Policies

• Minimum Passing Grade: A minimum grade is required to pass the course; see program-specific requirements.

• Academic Integrity: All work must be original; plagiarism or duplication of assignments is not permitted.

• Assignment Deadlines: Assignments are due by Monday, 11:59 p.m. (Pacific Time) of the week assigned.

• Attendance: Participation in online activities and completion of assignments is required for successful completion.

Example: Application of Anatomical Position

When describing the location of a structure in the human body, the anatomical position is used as a reference. For example, the heart is medial to the lungs and superior to the diaphragm.

Definitions of Key Terms

• Anatomical Position: The standard position in which the body is standing upright, facing forward, arms at the sides, and palms facing forward.

• Histology: The study of tissues at the microscopic level.

• Organ System: A group of organs that work together to perform a specific function (e.g., digestive system).

• Microscopy: The use of microscopes to view small structures not visible to the naked eye.

Formulas and Equations

• Surface Area to Volume Ratio (important in cell biology):

Summary Table: Levels of Organization in the Human Body

Additional info: This syllabus provides a foundational overview for students preparing for more advanced studies in anatomy, physiology, and related health sciences.