Course Overview

Introduction

This course, Medical Terminology (AHS-102), is designed for students entering health-related fields. It covers the structure, spelling, definition, and pronunciation of medical terms, including roots, prefixes, and suffixes. The course emphasizes terminology for all major body systems and is foundational for further study in health sciences.

Course Objectives

Learning Goals

• CO1: Define combining forms, prefixes, and suffixes used in health sciences.

• CO2: Correctly spell medical terms and major anatomical structures for all body systems.

• CO3: List the functions of each organ system.

• CO4: Identify the structure of major organs for each organ system.

• CO5: List accessory organs related to each organ system.

• CO6: Identify anatomical, pathology, diagnostic, and therapeutic terms relating to each organ system.

• CO7: Define names of medications relating to each organ system.

• CO8: Define abbreviations associated with each organ system.

Course Materials

Required Textbook

• Title: Medical Language: A Living Language

• Authors: Fremgen and Frucht

• Publisher: Pearson

• Edition: 8th

• Access: Provided digitally via Blackboard through Inclusive Access program

Additional Materials

• Stable Internet access

• Webcam, microphone, and speakers for meetings and exams

Course Structure and Schedule

Weekly Topics

• Week 1: Chapter 1 - Introduction to Medical Terminology

• Week 2: Chapters 2 & 3 - Body Structure, Integumentary System

• Week 3: Test 1 & Chapter 4 - Skeletal System

• Week 4: Chapter 5 - Muscular System

• Week 5: Test 2 & Chapter 6 - Nervous System

• Week 6: Chapters 7 & 8 - Special Senses: Eyes & Ears

• Week 7: Test 3 & Chapter 9 - Cardiovascular System

• Week 8: Chapters 10 & 13 - Blood, Lymphatic, Immune Systems & Digestive System

• Week 9: Test 4 & Chapter 11 - Endocrine System

• Week 10: Chapter 12 - Respiratory System

• Week 11: Chapter 12 & Test 5

• Finals: Final Exam (Comprehensive)

Note: For detailed due dates, refer to the section-specific course schedule in Blackboard.

Assessment and Grading

Grade Schema

Grade Breakdown

Course Policies

Attendance

• Attendance and participation are required for academic success.

• Online attendance is based on completion of weekly assignments and activities.

• Administrative withdrawal may occur for non-attendance (e.g., 14-day rule).

Tests and Assignments

• 5 lecture exams and a comprehensive final exam.

• Assignments include quizzes, case studies, writing, discussions, online homework, and projects.

• Missed exams require documentation for excused absence; make-up exams may include short answer and essay questions.

• No make-up for missed homework or assignments; missed work is recorded as zero.u

• No extra credit offered.

Academic Integrity

• Students must do their own work and not share login credentials.

• Cheating, plagiarism, and collusion are violations and result in disciplinary action.

• All work must adhere to the College's Code of Conduct.

Technology Requirements

• Multi-factor authentication (MFA) required for college systems.

• Reliable internet and compatible devices are necessary.

• Microsoft Office or PDF format required for assignment submission.

Support Services

• Academic coaching and tutoring available.

• Student support services for food, housing, and disabilities.

• Blackboard Ally for accessible course materials.

Program Learning Outcomes

Core Competencies

• Mastery of medical terminology for all major body systems.

• Ability to apply terminology in clinical and academic settings.

• Preparation for advanced health science courses.

Course Schedule (Summary)

Key Medical Terminology Topics

Major Body Systems Covered

• Body Structure

• Integumentary System

• Skeletal System

• Muscular System

• Nervous System

• Special Senses: Eyes & Ears

• Cardiovascular System

• Blood, Lymphatic, and Immune Systems

• Endocrine System

• Respiratory System

• Digestive System

• Urinary System

• Female Reproductive System

• Male Reproductive System

• Mental Health

Example: In Chapter 1, students will learn the structure of medical terms, including the use of combining forms, prefixes, and suffixes. For instance, the term cardiology is formed from the root cardi- (heart) and the suffix -logy (study of).

Important Course Policies

Attendance and Withdrawal

• Attendance is tracked weekly; non-attendance may result in administrative withdrawal.

• Students must officially withdraw to avoid failing grades.

Academic Integrity

• Cheating, plagiarism, and collusion are strictly prohibited.

• Violations result in a grade of zero and possible further disciplinary action.

Technology and Accessibility

• Students must use college email for all communication.

• Blackboard Ally and Student Disability Services are available for accessibility needs.

Support and Resources

Academic and Student Support

• Free tutoring and academic coaching available.

• STAR Center provides assistance with food, housing, and basic needs.

• Student Disability Services offers accommodations for students with disabilities.

Conclusion

This syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of the Medical Terminology course, including objectives, materials, schedule, grading, and policies. Students are encouraged to utilize all available resources and adhere to course policies for academic success.