Course Overview

Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology I

This course provides an integrated approach to life science, focusing on the human body’s structure and function. Students will explore the organization of the body, physiological processes, and the relationship between structure and function at multiple levels, from molecules to organ systems.

• Course Name: Anatomy and Physiology I – Lecture

• Credits: 4 credit hours (lecture and laboratory combined)

• Textbook: Human Anatomy and Physiology, 3rd Edition, Erin C., Pearson Education, 2024

• Instructor: Dr. Lydia-Ann Ghumienny, Ph.D.

Course Objectives

Learning Goals

Students will develop foundational knowledge in anatomy and physiology, preparing them for further study in health sciences and related fields. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking and scientific literacy.

• Describe the functions that power, support, and move parts of the human body.

• Interpret scientific data and apply scientific reasoning.

• Utilize knowledge to think critically in other health technologies courses.

Major Topics and Student Learning Outcomes

Body Organization and Structural Levels

Understanding the hierarchical organization of the human body is essential for studying anatomy and physiology.

• Body Plan: Identify and understand the overall organization of the human body.

• Structural Levels: Define and relate the major structural levels: chemical, cellular, tissue, organ, organ system, and organism.

• Example: The heart is an organ composed of muscle tissue, connective tissue, and nervous tissue, functioning as part of the cardiovascular system.

Cell Structure and Function

Cells are the basic units of life, with specialized structures and functions that support the body’s physiology.

• Cell Components: Examine the function of cell organelles such as the nucleus, mitochondria, and ribosomes.

• Cell Membrane Transport: Understand passive and active transport mechanisms.

• Example: Diffusion and osmosis are passive transport processes that move substances across cell membranes.

• Equation: (Fick's Law of Diffusion)

Tissues and Organ Systems

Tissues are groups of similar cells that perform specific functions. Organ systems are composed of multiple organs working together.

• Tissue Types: Epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissues.

• Organ Systems: Integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems.

• Example: The nervous system includes the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.

Principles of Homeostasis

Homeostasis refers to the body’s ability to maintain stable internal conditions despite external changes.

• Feedback Loops: Negative and positive feedback mechanisms regulate physiological processes.

• Example: Regulation of blood glucose by insulin and glucagon.

• Equation:

Muscle and Skeletal Systems

The muscular and skeletal systems provide movement, support, and protection for the body.

• Bone Classification: Long, short, flat, and irregular bones.

• Muscle Contraction: Involves actin and myosin filaments sliding past each other.

• Equation:

• Example: Skeletal muscles contract to move bones at joints.

Nervous System

The nervous system controls and coordinates body activities through electrical and chemical signals.

• Central Nervous System (CNS): Brain and spinal cord.

• Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Nerves outside the CNS.

• Neurons: Specialized cells for transmitting nerve impulses.

• Example: Sensory neurons carry information from receptors to the CNS.

General and Special Senses

Sensory systems detect and interpret stimuli from the environment.

• General Senses: Touch, pain, temperature, and proprioception.

• Special Senses: Vision, hearing, taste, smell, and equilibrium.

• Example: Photoreceptors in the retina detect light for vision.

Autonomic Nervous System

The autonomic nervous system regulates involuntary functions such as heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate.

• Sympathetic Division: Prepares the body for 'fight or flight' responses.

• Parasympathetic Division: Promotes 'rest and digest' activities.

• Example: Increased heart rate during stress is mediated by the sympathetic nervous system.

Assessment and Grading

Evaluation Methods

Student performance is assessed through quizzes, exams, laboratory reports, and homework assignments.

• Lecture Quizzes: 4 quizzes, 25 points each

• Lecture Exams: 4 exams, 100 points each

• Laboratory Exams: 4 exams, 50 points each

• Laboratory Reports: 11 reports, 10 points each (lowest score dropped)

• Homework: 3 assignments, 25 points each

• Total Points: 875

Course Policies

Attendance and Devices

• Attendance at lectures is required; most exam material is based on lecture notes.

• Electronic devices must be silenced during class and exams.

• Phones, smart watches, and tablets are not permitted during exams.

Laboratory Learning Outcomes

Lab Skills and Knowledge

Laboratory sessions reinforce lecture concepts and provide hands-on experience.

• Identify body plan and organization.

• Recognize organic compounds and their importance.

• Know the function of cell organelles.

• Understand osmosis and diffusion.

• Identify tissue types and major skeletal muscles.

• Understand the organization of the nervous system.

• Identify structures of the nervous system and senses.

Additional Information

Textbook and Materials

• Inclusive Access: Digital materials are included for enrolled students.

• Lab manual and other resources are required for laboratory sessions.

Academic Support

• Office hours and virtual meetings are available for student support.

• Academic resources such as tutoring and library services are accessible.

Course Calendar and Reading List

Refer to the course calendar for assigned readings and topics from Human Anatomy and Physiology, 3rd Edition.

Web Sections and Online Exams

LockDown Browser

• Online exams require the use of LockDown Browser and webcam monitoring.

• Follow provided instructions for setup and troubleshooting.