Course Overview

Introduction to Human Anatomy

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, organ systems, and the organization of the human body. Laboratory work includes the study of developmental, microscopic, and digital body images.

• Course Duration: 10 weeks

• Format: Online, asynchronous with optional synchronous/live sessions

• Total Course Credits: 4

• Total Course Hours: 83

• Lecture Hours (Online Asynchronous): 47

Course Learning Outcomes

Key Competencies Developed

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

1. Define the four levels of human body organization (cellular, tissue, organ, and organ system), anatomical position, planes, and directions, and apply these concepts to practical situations such as locating different body parts.

2. Characterize features of a eukaryotic cell, including its organelles and their main functions.

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

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

5. Demonstrate knowledge of all organ systems by defining and explaining their components, relative positions, and anatomical interrelationships.

6. Identify tissues and organs on histological slides, anatomical models, and biological specimens, and demonstrate microscope use and safe dissecting techniques.

Major Topics Covered

Scope of Study

• Cell Structure and Function: Study of eukaryotic cells, organelles, and their roles in maintaining cellular processes.

• Tissues: Examination of epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissues, including their structure and function.

• Organs and Organ Systems: Analysis of the major organ systems (e.g., integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, reproductive, endocrine, lymphatic, and immune systems).

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

• Developmental Anatomy: Overview of embryological development and its impact on adult anatomy.

Course Materials

Required and Recommended Texts

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

• Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (APA, 7th Edition) – Optional

Access codes for digital platforms and laboratory applications may be required. Students are responsible for obtaining all required materials.

Evaluation and Grading

Assessment Structure

• 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.

Grading Scale

Minimum Passing Grade: Refer to program-specific requirements. Grades below the minimum are not considered passing.

Program Learning Outcomes

General Education Program Mission

The General Education Program aims to provide students with foundational education that integrates with and complements their chosen academic discipline. It emphasizes critical thinking, scientific reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and technological and informational literacy.

General Education Learning Outcomes

• Employ effective communication skills

• Interpret quantitative data

• Demonstrate information literacy

• Analyze complex issues from multiple perspectives

Course Policies and Requirements

Key Policies

• All assignments must be submitted online unless otherwise noted.

• Late assignments may be penalized unless prior arrangements are made.

• Students are responsible for backing up all coursework and assignments.

• Academic integrity is expected; plagiarism or duplication of work is not permitted.

Example: Application of Anatomical Position

Definition: The anatomical position is a standard reference posture used in anatomy to describe the location and relation of body parts. In this position, the body stands upright, facing forward, with arms at the sides and palms facing forward.

• Application: Descriptions such as "superior," "inferior," "anterior," and "posterior" are always based on the anatomical position, regardless of the actual position of the body.

Summary Table: Levels of Organization in the Human Body

Additional info: This syllabus provides foundational knowledge and expectations for students enrolled in ANAT 260 Human Anatomy. For detailed content on each anatomical system, refer to the course textbook and weekly modules.