Course Overview

Introduction to Medical Terminology

This course provides a comprehensive study of the origins and building blocks of medical terminology. Students will learn to analyze, build, and spell medical terms by studying prefixes, combining forms, and suffixes. The course also covers common abbreviations, drugs, and terminology related to body systems, disease states, diagnostic procedures, and treatments.

• Key Point 1: Medical terminology is essential for understanding and communicating about human body diseases and treatments.

• Key Point 2: The course emphasizes the structure of medical terms, including prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms.

• Example: The term cardiology can be broken down into "cardi-" (heart) and "-ology" (study of).

Course Outcomes and Objectives

Learning Goals

Upon successful completion, students will be able to analyze, build, and spell medical terms, recognize diseases and procedures related to body systems, and interpret medical terms in context.

• Key Point 1: Recognize the medical meaning of prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms for each body system.

• Key Point 2: Identify and interpret medical terms for diseases, symptoms, procedures, and treatments.

• Key Point 3: Spell medical terms correctly and assemble terms using word parts.

• Example: "Nephrectomy" is constructed from "nephr-" (kidney) and "-ectomy" (removal).

Course Structure and Requirements

Distance Learning and Technical Requirements

The course is delivered online, with weekly modules including lectures, readings, and assessments. Students must have daily access to a computer and internet, and use required software such as Firefox and Adobe Reader.

• Key Point 1: Course activities are asynchronous, allowing flexible scheduling.

• Key Point 2: Technical issues do not excuse late assignments; students should have backup plans.

• Example: Assignments and quizzes are accessed through Canvas LMS.

Grading and Assessment

Evaluation Methods

Grades are determined by discussion boards, quizzes, exams, and a final exam. Quizzes constitute 50% of the grade, exams 31%, discussion boards 6%, and the final exam 13%.

• Key Point 1: Quizzes are multiple-choice and can be taken multiple times; exams are single-attempt.

• Key Point 2: No late assignments are accepted unless pre-approved for emergencies.

• Example: The final exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions and is timed at 120 minutes.

Academic Integrity and Civility

Policies and Expectations

Students must adhere to academic honesty, avoid plagiarism, and practice civility. Group study is allowed, but all submitted work must be original. Duplicate assignments result in a zero grade and disciplinary action.

• Key Point 1: Plagiarism includes copying, photographing, or recording course materials without permission.

• Key Point 2: Civility is expected in all interactions, including teamwork and communication.

• Example: Professional and courteous communication is required in emails and discussions.

Accessibility and Student Support

ADA Statement and Resources

Reasonable accommodations are provided for students with documented disabilities. Support services are available for advising, counseling, library access, financial aid, and veterans.

• Key Point 1: Students must provide documentation to the Learning Support Services office for accommodations.

• Key Point 2: Additional resources are accessible through the WCC Student Gateway and related links.

• Example: Section 504 and ADA compliance ensures equal educational opportunities.

Course Materials

Required Textbook

The required textbook is Medical Language by Susan Turley, 6th edition (Pearson, 2024). Students may use the e-text or hard copy, with access provided under the First Day Course Materials tab.

• Key Point 1: The textbook covers medical terminology for all body systems and disease states.

• Key Point 2: Students should follow the course schedule and syllabus for readings and assignments.

• Example: Chapters include topics such as body structure, cardiovascular system, and special senses.

Course Policies

Privacy, Recording, and Reserve Clause

Photography, recording, or electronically capturing class content is prohibited without written permission. The syllabus may be revised as needed, with notifications sent to students.

• Key Point 1: Privacy policies protect student and faculty information and intellectual property.

• Key Point 2: Students must comply with all college-wide policies and procedures.

• Example: The Family Educational Right to Privacy Act (FERPA) governs privacy and recording rules.

Strategies for Success

Study and Communication Tips

Students are encouraged to print the course schedule, check announcements regularly, begin assignments early, and communicate proactively with the instructor.

• Key Point 1: Time management and early engagement are critical for success.

• Key Point 2: Professional communication is expected in all correspondence.

• Example: Office hours are available by appointment for academic support.